EMBU senator defends Ruto's upcoming tour of Mt Kenya region

Speaking at ACK Kamugere Church in Runyenjes constituency, Mundigi dismissed critics of the tour, assuring residents that the President’s visit is well-planned and inevitable. His remarks were seen as a direct rebuttal to Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, who recently downplayed the significance of the visit, hinting that Ruto’s influence in Mt Kenya was diminishing.

“This tour is unstoppable. The President is coming to the Mountain, and we must be there to welcome him” Mundigi affirmed, adding that plans for the visit were at an advanced stage.

Mt Kenya has historically played a kingmaker role in Kenyan politics, and in 2022, the region overwhelmingly backed Ruto over Raila Odinga, securing his path to the presidency. However, the landscape has since become more complex, with deepening divisions and power struggles shaping the region’s future.

This tour will be the President’s first since the controversial impeachment of his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua. Gachagua had positioned himself as Mt Kenya’s de facto leader, championing the “one-man, one-vote, one-shilling” revenue allocation formula and calling for economic unity in the region. His removal sparked outrage among his supporters, creating a split between those who remain loyal to Ruto and those who believe Gachagua’s ouster was unjust.

The tour also comes on the heels of a political pact between Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, an alliance that has unsettled some Mt Kenya residents who overwhelmingly rejected Raila in the last election. This new realignment is expected to test Ruto’s standing in the region, as opposition figures and internal rivals look to capitalize on any cracks in his support base.

Mundigi has assured residents that Ruto’s tour will bring significant benefits to the region, including development projects and financial allocations aimed at strengthening his political grip ahead of the 2027 election.

“The President is coming with goodies.Mt Kenya we have the deputy president Prof Kithure Kindiki.This is not just a political tour; it is a development tour,” Mundigi emphasized.

However, the success of the visit will serve as a crucial political litmus test. A strong turnout will reinforce Ruto’s dominance in Mt Kenya, proving that he remains the region’s preferred leader despite internal wrangles. On the other hand, a lukewarm reception could embolden his critics and reshape the political trajectory of the Mountain, signaling potential trouble for his re-election bid.

The Public Service cabinet secretary Justin Muturi who comes from Embu county in Mt Kenya region stated that he will not be accompanying the president in his tour.