Tensions in Mt Kenya politics escalated on Tuesday after DCP party official Dr Peter Mbae accused Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga of being a tool to drive ethnic division.
Speaking to supporters, Mbae claimed Kahiga had long abandoned allegiance to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, alleging his recent controversial statements were orchestrated to stoke animosity among communities.
The claims were accompanied by photos showing Kahiga meeting with Ngunjiri Wambugu, a known critic of Gachagua. The visuals can be viewed here.
Dr Mbae’s statement comes amid growing criticism of Kahiga following his remarks on Raila Odinga’s death.
The governor had previously suggested that the demise of the ODM boss would benefit the Mt Kenya region, claiming development focus would shift from Nyanza to his home county.
Political observers argue that such rhetoric is dangerous, especially during a period of national mourning, and risks inflaming ethnic tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The meeting between Kahiga and Wambugu, both photographed in a private setting, raised eyebrows among political watchers who suspect alignment against Gachagua’s influence.
Dr Mbae emphasized that the governor’s behavior reflects a deliberate departure from Mt Kenya unity efforts championed by senior leaders, warning that continued propagation of ethnic narratives could undermine the region’s cohesion.
Analysts note that the DCP official’s intervention underscores the increasing factionalism within Mt Kenya politics.
While Kahiga maintains a strong local following, accusations of betrayal and manipulation threaten to isolate him from influential county stakeholders.
The timing of the allegations, coming on the heels of Kahiga’s controversial comments on Raila Odinga, adds fuel to an already heated political atmosphere.
Political watchers say the coming days will be critical, as reactions from Gachagua and other Mt Kenya leaders could determine whether Kahiga’s influence diminishes or if he consolidates support from rival factions.
The situation has now become a litmus test for leadership and unity within the Mt Kenya political ecosystem.
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