By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT 

A spot-check at the Assembly revealed that the few Ward Reps who show up during sitting days intentionally keep off the debating chambers and instead opt to while away time at the Member’s lounge.

On the other hand, several other MCAs also show up casually dressed in jeans and t-shirts instead of suits and ties as per parliamentary requirements in order to avoid attending the plenary sittings at the August House.

The go-slow by MCAs has also led to lethargy by legislative staff who have been adamant to schedule legislative business on the Order Papers. Several Order Papers for previous sittings have been blank, leaving the few MCAs attending plenary sittings to enter the House and leave immediately without transacting any business.

Committee meetings have also been hard hit by the quorum hitches, with Member’s failing to show up to deliberate on matters requiring their attention, leaving Embu County residents with a serious representation gap.

A source who did not wish to be quoted intimated to the press that despite absconding the plenary and committee sittings, the absentee MCAs always conspire to have attendance registers signed to draw sitting allowances.

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the MCAs who have unofficially started campaigns to defend their seats in the August 2027 General Election are now opting to accompany senior politicians in the county during development project launching and commissioning ceremonies.

However, Deputy Speaker Ibrahim Swaleh was quick to downplay allegations of his counterparts being in a go-slow, saying quorum hitches are normal in the parliamentary setup.

Swaleh who is also the MCA for Kirimari ward nonetheless cautioned MCAs that the public was keenly watching their conduct, and therefore should always uphold integrity and avoid truancy.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT 

Ruku said the elders, drawn from different parts of the Mt Kenya region, impressed upon him that his advocacy, including equitable development and political representation, could be pursued more effectively through a united region speaking with one voice.

He said the Kirigiti gathering marked a turning point in his political advocacy, with the elders urging him to drop his push for a distinction between Mt Kenya East and Mt Kenya West and devote his efforts to building unity across the region.

He said the elders also endorsed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as a spokesperson for the region which was among his push for a distinct Mt Kenya East following what he reffered to as vilification from some political leaders. "They also called on leaders to rally behind the DP  in advancing the interests of the region as a whole."

Ruku said he accepted the elders' counsel because of their experience and understanding of the region's history, arguing that their overriding concern was to leave future generations with a united community.

“It is the wisdom of the elders who are the custodians of our heritage, our history and our future. And when they sit and agree on a common direction, then you should be able to listen to them,” Ruku said during a local television interview.

The CS said the elders had made it clear that the region's concerns over equitable development did not require political fragmentation and could instead be addressed through a united Mt Kenya pursuing its interests collectively.

He said his change of position should therefore not be interpreted as abandoning the demand for equity, but as a change in strategy following the intervention of the elders.

Ruku's earlier campaign for greater recognition of Mt Kenya East had been driven by what he described as longstanding disparities in leadership, development, particularly in roads and other infrastructure.

He noted that the Kenya Kwanza administration under President William Ruto has begun addressing some of the concerns but a section of  political leaders from the West were not happy with it. He added that this informed his campaign, pointing to road projects in Meru, Tharaka-Nithi, Embu, Mwea and Isiolo.

“The government of President William Ruto is ensuring that we have development projects which we have been denied for many years by previous governments,” he said.

Ruku cited his constituency as an example of the infrastructure deficit he had been highlighting in his push for a stronger Mt Kenya East voice.

He said that when he was elected MP in 2022, the constituency had only 37 kilometres of tarmacked roads despite its large geographical area. He said 20 kilometres have since been completed under the Kenya Kwanza administration, while another 45 kilometres were under construction.

It was the development gap, Ruku said, that had informed his earlier advocacy for a stronger political voice for Mt Kenya East.

He said he had also linked the region's development to its political support for President Ruto.

“That's why I've been championing and saying at the top of my voice that Mt Kenya East would definitely give President William Ruto two terms,” he said.

Ruku, however, maintained that such development demands could now be pursued without creating political divisions between the eastern and western regions of Mt Kenya.

He dismissed claims that his change of position amounted to an admission that his earlier campaign had failed, saying it was instead the result of the elders' intervention and their appeal for the region to remain united.

According to CS Ruku, the elders were motivated by the long-term interests of the community rather than personal or political gain as articulated by the former DP and other opposition leaders.

“They don't want to profit. They have seen it all,” he said, adding that the elders wanted to bequeath future generations a united community capable of contributing to a united Kenya.

He said some of the elders involved in the Kirigiti process had previously served as Cabinet ministers, senior legislators and professionals, giving them considerable experience in public affairs.

Ruku said their intervention also resonated with the region's history of working together, including during the struggle for independence, when freedom fighters from different parts of Mt Kenya collaborated in the fight against colonial rule.

He said the spirit of cooperation should similarly guide the region's politics today.

The CS also renewed his criticism of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of turning what he described as a personal political dispute with Parliament into a broader community issue.

Ruku said disagreements between Gachagua and the President should not be portrayed as a conflict between the Head of State and the people of Mt Kenya.

He challenged Gachagua to engage the elders publicly and allow them to explain the decision they reached at Kirigiti rather than continue contesting their position.

Ruku said the elders had acted independently and that their decision should be respected.

He further accused the former Deputy President of allowing his political differences to become a matter for the wider community. "Stop making the matters of your own inadequacies to be matters of a community,” Ruku said.

The CS said the region should now work together under Kindiki's leadership rather than allow political differences to deepen divisions within Mt Kenya or between the region and the President.

He stated that Kindiki's position as Deputy President had given Mt Kenya East an opportunity to demonstrate that political leadership of the region need not always come from Mt Kenya West.

Ruku said future presidents and deputy presidents from the region could emerge from Meru, Embu, Chuka or other parts of Mt Kenya and still command the support of the entire region.

“It’s not necessary that a Deputy President must come from Mt Kenya West or a President must come from Mt Kenya West. He can come or she can come from Meru, from Embu, from Chuka and get supported by the entire region,” he said.

Ruku said his immediate priority was now to promote peace and unity across the region as advised by elders, marking a clear shift from his earlier campaign for a separate Mt Kenya East political identity.

He said the flywhisk handed to him by the elders at Kirigiti has consequently become a symbol of his new message: a united Mt Kenya pursuing equity, development and political interests through a common voice.

“My first task is a peace caravan from Githurai through Kenol to Kirinyaga, and you will see this soon,” he said.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

The Deputy President spoke days after Mt Kenya elders gathered at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County and declared him a unifying factor for the region.

The elders called for unity among the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru and Mbeere communities and urged the region to remain politically cohesive as the country heads towards the 2027 elections.

They also expressed support for President William Ruto’s administration, giving Prof Kindiki a fresh platform to rally the region behind the President.

Prof Kindiki said leaders should respect political differences but avoid turning them into divisions that weaken the region. He has repeatedly called for an end to attempts to split Mt Kenya along East-West lines, arguing that the communities have stronger historical, cultural and economic ties than the political differences separating them.

His appeal comes as political activity intensifies in the region, with rival political groups seeking to shape its political direction and claim influence ahead of 2027.

Prof Kindiki has now begun putting the elders’ directive into practice, combining his unity message with a series of development engagements across Mt Kenya East.

His first major engagements after the Kirigiti meeting included an inspection of works on the Mukothima-Gaciongo-Gatunga Road in Tharaka Constituency, Tharaka Nithi County.

He later addressed residents at Gaciongo Market during a public sensitisation event, using the engagements to link the call for unity with the Government’s development agenda.

The Deputy President has positioned roads, infrastructure and delivery of Government programmes as key components of his outreach, arguing that political leadership should ultimately be about improving people’s lives.

At Kirigiti, the elders urged Mt Kenya communities to maintain a common voice on matters affecting the region and rejected attempts to create separate political blocs.

Prof Kindiki’s immediate challenge is to translate the elders’ declaration into a broader reconciliation effort while persuading leaders across Mt Kenya to put aside personal political differences.

He is also expected to intensify his appeal for the region to remain united and support President Ruto as the 2027 political contest gathers pace.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Speaking in Embu Town during the launch of a countywide distribution of computers to schools, Mundigi cautioned politicians and their supporters against infiltrating meetings organised by opposing political groups.

The Senator said such confrontations risk creating unnecessary tension, disrupting peaceful political engagements and threatening the stability of the county.

His remarks come days after chaos disrupted a UDA delegates’ meeting at Nembure Stadium that was attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. Police said several people were injured and vehicles were torched during the confrontation. 

Mundigi urged political players to embrace tolerance and allow rival groups to conduct their meetings without interference, saying political differences should not be allowed to degenerate into violence.

He also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and exercise restraint as political activities intensify across Embu ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Senator maintained that leaders have a responsibility to set an example by respecting democratic space and allowing competing political views to coexist. He said the focus should remain on development and improving the lives of residents rather than creating unnecessary political confrontations.

The legislator called on the Kenyans to support the government of President William Ruto and his Deputy Prof Kithure Kindiki to deliver the Kenya Kwanza manifesto.

He called on Embu residents to reject violence and maintain peace, noting that political competition should never come at the expense of the county’s stability.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Mukunji moved to court on September 15, 2026, seeking protection against possible arrest in connection with the September 12 incident, which left two people dead and property destroyed. 

Justice Magare Dennis Kizito Ngwono certified the application as urgent and directed that the respondents be served with the court papers by close of business on September 16.

The respondents have been given until September 23 to file their responses, with the matter scheduled to return to court on September 29 for directions.

Under the orders issued by the court, Mukunji is required to provide a Sh1 million bond or, alternatively, Sh500,000 cash bail. The court also directed that he report to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters in Nairobi on September 21.

Justice Ngwono, however, made it clear that the anticipatory bail does not stop the police or other investigating agencies from continuing with their inquiries or charging the MP if evidence supports such action. 

The court's intervention comes amid growing scrutiny over the events at Nembure, where a UDA delegates' meeting addressed by DP Kindiki descended into violence, resulting in deaths, injuries and destruction of vehicles. 

Mukunji has consistently denied any involvement in the confrontation and has condemned the violence, saying he should not be held responsible for the deaths and destruction witnessed at the venue.

In a letter to the National Police Service dated September 15,2026 through his lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, the MP has also questioned what he described as conflicting messages from government officials regarding whether he was a subject of police investigations.

His legal team said Mukunji was particularly concerned after Government Spokesperson Charles Owino publicly indicated that police were pursuing him over the Nembure incident, which they said differed from earlier statements attributed to police indicating that he was not under investigation. 

Mukunji has demanded what he described as a comprehensive, transparent and impartial investigation into the violence, insisting that the process should not be influenced by political considerations or selective prosecution.

The legislator has also called for investigations into the conduct of Kindiki, claiming that the Deputy President was heard issuing instructions to police officers during the meeting. Mukunji argues that the circumstances surrounding those alleged orders should also be examined as part of establishing what happened at Nembure.

He further accused security agencies of subjecting him and his family to intimidation and surveillance, and demanded that officers stop what he described as harassment around his home and the targeting of his family members. His lawyers have maintained that he is ready to cooperate with any lawful investigation and asked that any request for his attendance by police or the DCI be communicated through his advocates.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT 

Embu County police boss Vincent Kitili has since confirmed to KTN News that one person was shot dead.

The meeting had brought together delegates from across Embu County, with those expected to attend receiving invitation messages on Thursday ahead of the gathering.

However, only invited delegates were allowed into the stadium, where Prof Kindiki and other leaders were holding the meeting.

Tensions rose after hundreds of people who had not been invited were denied entry into the venue, leading to a confrontation between the group and police officers deployed to maintain security.

Police fired teargas canisters in an attempt to disperse the protesters and prevent them from accessing the stadium, as the situation rapidly deteriorated outside the meeting venue.

The ensuing chaos resulted in several vehicles being set ablaze, with reports indicating that more than 10 vehicles were burnt. 

Two people were also feared dead during the disturbances, although details surrounding the reported deaths remained unclear by press time.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire condemned the violence, describing the burning of vehicles and the confrontation as a backward step for the county.

Gov Mbarire also pointed an accusing finger at Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, whom she linked to what she described as the planning of the meeting and the events that preceded the chaos.

One of the victims, Zacharia Mutungi, who lost his vehicle during the incident, condemned the destruction of property and called on investigators to move swiftly and ensure that those responsible are brought to book.

The incident has raised concerns over the growing political tensions in Embu County, with calls for political leaders and their supporters to embrace dialogue, restraint and peaceful engagement rather than allowing political differences to degenerate into violence.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Mr Atwoli said the Constitution had reached a stage where certain provisions needed to be reviewed to address challenges that have continued to affect the country, particularly in the health sector.

He argued that health services should not have been devolved to county governments in the first place, saying many counties lack the capacity and resources required to effectively manage the critical docket.

According to Atwoli, the persistent strikes, shortages and other challenges witnessed in the health sector are partly a result of poor management at the county level, and returning the function to the national government could help streamline the sector.

He maintained that healthcare is a critical national service that requires coordinated management and adequate resources, warning that continued wrangles and inefficiencies at the county level could further undermine service delivery to millions of Kenyans.

Atwoli also raised concerns over the management of land by county governments, warning that the continued conversion of agricultural land into residential and commercial developments could have serious consequences for Kenya's food security.

He said agricultural land was increasingly being depleted through construction, a trend he warned could undermine the country's agricultural potential and expose future generations to food insecurity.

The COTU boss called for urgent measures to protect land reserved for agriculture, arguing that Kenya must strike a balance between urban development and the preservation of productive agricultural land.

Turning to politics, Atwoli dismissed claims surrounding Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's presidential ambitions, arguing that the former ODM Secretary-General lacks the experience required to mount a serious bid for the country's top office.

Atwoli said Sifuna's experience from serving one term as a senator was not sufficient preparation for the presidency, effectively challenging the lawmaker to gain more political and administrative experience before seeking the country's highest office.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Embu Catholic Diocese Bishop Peter Kimani has urged political leaders to prioritize unity, dialogue and peaceful coexistence, cautioning against rhetoric that could create unnecessary hostility and divisions among communities and leaders.

Speaking during a church service at St Peter’s Cathedral in Embu yesterday, Bishop Kimani warned politicians against utterances that could create enmity, urging them to embrace dialogue and focus on issues that bring people together rather than those that deepen divisions.

The bishop’s remarks came as political leaders from Mt Kenya East continued to push for the region to be allowed to chart its own political course, separate from Mt Kenya West. Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, however, strongly defended the push, dismissing claims that calls for Mt Kenya East to establish an independent political voice amount to a tribal agenda.

Speaking at Revelation Church in Embu town, Mbarire said Mt Kenya East has a democratic right to determine its own political direction and should not be accused of promoting tribalism simply because it is seeking greater political autonomy. She argued that leaders and residents from Mt Kenya East have for years supported political leaders from Mt Kenya West and should now be allowed to articulate their own political interests and positions without being accused of dividing the broader Mt Kenya community.

Mbarire also took issue with Runyenjes MP Muchangi Karemba, who has opposed calls for an independent Mt Kenya East voting bloc, accusing him of misleading residents on the issue. The governor maintained that the debate should be viewed as a question of political representation and autonomy rather than a tribal contest.

The push for a distinct Mt Kenya East political voice has gained momentum, with its proponents arguing that the region should be free to make its own political decisions while remaining part of the broader Mt Kenya community.

Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi said Mt Kenya East has grown politically and called for respect for Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, whom he described as the region’s political supremo.

Political leaders backing the position have also insisted that Kindiki, who hails from Tharaka Nithi County in Mt Kenya East, should be accorded respect as the region’s senior political leader and that the East should be allowed to independently determine its political stand.

The growing disagreement has now placed political calls for greater autonomy against the Catholic Church’s appeal for unity, restraint and responsible political rhetoric, as Mt Kenya positions itself ahead of the 2027 General Election.

By BONIFACE MWANIKI 

According to senator Wambua, the wait is causing disquiet among Kenyans and the mistakes which made the opposition lose in 2022 mustn't be repeated. 

Speaking on Wednesday while on a meet the people tour of Katse and Kyuso towns in Mwingi North, Sen Wambua said the endless delay is killing the opposition's momentum, yet everyone knows Kalonzo is the best candidate for the united opposition, as his credentials speak for themselves. 

"Kalonzo remains head and shoulders above his competitors in the opposition, and the decision to front him as the man to send President William Ruto home is long overdue," said the Senate deputy minority leader. 

"The delay is making Kenyans tired. Why is it so hard to make this all-important declaration, yet all leaders are known by name and potential and Kalonzo surpass all?" added Kitui Senator Wambua.

He said that personally he wouldn't settle for any other Presidential candidate other than Kalonzo Musyoka, as this was his moment to lead the nation. 

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Led by New Life Pentecostal Church Bishop Godfrey Oburo, the church leaders said they will intensify peace efforts across the constituency, urging residents to reconcile, embrace dialogue and avoid allowing political differences to permanently divide their communities.

The initiative seeks to address tensions and differences witnessed during the by-election, with the church warning that unresolved political disagreements could deepen as politicians and their supporters begin positioning themselves for the next General Election.

Bishop Oburo said peace should begin with individuals and communities, urging residents to embrace dialogue whenever political differences arise rather than allowing disagreements to degenerate into hostility.

The church leaders said political contests are temporary, but the relationships among neighbours, friends and families are permanent, calling on residents to separate political competition from their day-to-day relationships.

Church leader Agnes Mwaniki urged residents not to hate one another because of political affiliations, noting that political candidacies are temporary while the people of Mbeere North will continue living together long after elections are over.

Mwaniki further cautioned residents against propaganda and inflammatory political messages that could fuel divisions as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election, urging voters to critically assess information before sharing it.

The church said it will continue traversing different parts of Embu County to preach peace and cohesion, with leaders maintaining that early intervention is key to preventing political differences from escalating during the electioneering period.

Evurore Ward MCA Duncan Muratia welcomed the initiative, saying the church has a critical role to play in helping residents heal from political divisions and fostering peaceful coexistence ahead of the next election.

Muratia called on both political leaders and residents to support the peace campaign while warning politicians against using young people to advance personal political interests or disrupt peace. He urged leaders to compete for votes peacefully and allow residents to make their political choices without intimidation or division.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

MCAs allied to the minority side stormed out of the House after Speaker Josiah Thiriku allowed the debate on the motion to proceed, ostensibly without a meeting by the Selection Committee having been procedurally scheduled.

The Speaker had earlier threatened to declare opposition Ward Reps unruly and throw them out of the August House, sparking outrage that briefly interrupted the Wednesday morning plenary sitting. The debate later proceeded acrimoniously in unsavory language.

The opposing members opined that the report had been manufactured in a secret location to de-whip perceived government adversaries. They dismissed it in total as an illegality that should never have been tabled on the floor of the assembly.

Minority Leader Ngari Mbaka who is also the MCA for Mavuria Ward led  MCAs Lenny Masters (Kiambere), Sammy Tito (Nthawa), Phillip Nzangi (Makima) and Nominated MCA Yvonne Mati in storming out of the Assembly in protest to the Speakers directive allowing Majority Leader Peter Murithi (Mbeti North) to move the Motion. On the other hand, Mbeti South MCA Murithi Kiura was ejected from the Assembly Chambers for indecent dressing.

Speaker Thiriku however stated that nothing was amiss, noting that the report was signed by four out of eight Selection Committee members. He disclosed that some reports debated at the Assembly only bore the signature of the chairperson but were still deliberated upon.

The minority MCAs addressing press outside assembly chambers said that the leader of minority cannot move a motion when the members of selection committee had not agreed.

Mbaka said that it was unfortunate that the leaders of majority Peter Muriithi was going against the  house standing orders that that there was an hidden motive on the changes .

Makima ward MCA Philip Nzangi alleged that the Executive was meddling with affairs of the County Assembly and that the decision to reconstitute committees was rushed to satisfy certain quarters.

Kiambere ward MCA Lenny Masters said the changes were made to punish the opposition MCAs who are not allied to Embu governor Cecily Mbarire.

The government backed faction passed the motion ratifying the report without opposition.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Speaking on Saturday during a meeting attended by more than 30,000 elders from Mt Kenya East at Nembure Grounds in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County, Prof. Kindiki dismissed those he said were positioning themselves for his office. “Those who are after a seat should know that the position of Deputy President is not vacant. Someone is already occupying it and he is fully on it on behalf of the people of Kenya,” Kindiki said.

The Deputy President said he would not be distracted by political attacks or criticism, maintaining that his priority was to support President William Ruto and ensure the government delivers for Kenyans. “I will not let you down. Despite what some people throw at me, I will not fail you. I will do my work well and make you proud,” he said.

Kindiki’s remarks came amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 General Election, with ODM and other political players increasingly positioning themselves for alliances and influence across the country.

The Mt Kenya East elders, drawn from Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Kirinyaga and Isiolo, declared their support for Kindiki, urging Mt Kenya West to reciprocate the support they said the region has historically given to leaders from the Mt Kenya West.

The elders also declared Kindiki their political pointman in Mt Kenya, saying anyone seeking to engage the region on political matters should do so through the Deputy President.

Kindiki welcomed the elders’ proposal to engage their counterparts from Mt Kenya West through structured and respectful dialogue, saying the objective should be to unite the region and advance its political, economic, cultural and development interests.

He further reaffirmed his support for President William Ruto’s re-election, saying Mt Kenya East should back the President because doing so would advance the interests of the region.

Ruku said the elders should publicly denounce Gachagua’s remarks if they did not share his position, warning that their silence would only fuel calls to politically and economically delink Mt Kenya East from Mt Kenya West.

The CS said the Kiama Kiama elders should follow the example of the Njuri Ncheke elders, who, he said, had previously taken a stand against statements they considered divisive.

“If the Kiama Kiama Council of Elders is not part of the rebuke orchestrated by Gachagua against the people of Mt Kenya East, let them come out and denounce it,” Ruku said.

He warned that the campaign to delink Mt Kenya East from Mt Kenya West would be difficult to stop if the elders failed to speak out.

Ruku said Mt Kenya East would not retreat from its demand for greater political and economic recognition, arguing that the region also played a significant role in Kenya’s struggle for independence.

He said the Mau Mau struggle was not the preserve of the Kikuyu from Mt Kenya West, insisting that Mt Kenya East also made sacrifices in the fight for independence and therefore deserved to enjoy its benefits.

The CS also urged residents of Mt Kenya West to be cautious about Gachagua’s politics, describing the former Deputy President as a political conman who failed to deliver when he had the opportunity to serve in government.

Ruku further praised his Cabinet colleague Mutahi Kagwe for supporting the Mt Kenya East cause. Speaking to a local radio station, Kagwe backed Ruku’s position, saying Mt Kenya West should support Professor Kithure Kindiki, who comes from Mt Kenya East.

Ruku also called for stronger cooperation between the Government and the Church, urging religious leaders to work with the Government in addressing challenges facing communities.

He challenged parents and adults to be role models to children, saying the values imparted to young people would shape the country’s future.

The CS also urged Kenyans to respect Government and lawful authority, citing the Bible as a basis for obedience to those in authority.

On service delivery, Ruku pledged to fast-track the implementation and operationalisation of Thagichu Sub-County to facilitate the smooth running of Government offices and improve access to public services.

The CS also absolved the National Government of blame over shortages of drugs in public hospitals, putting the responsibility on county governments to ensure health facilities are adequately stocked.

Ruku said governors must ensure hospitals within their counties are properly managed and medicines are available. “SHA could be working, but when you get hospitals without drugs, it is the responsibility of the governors to ensure the hospitals in their counties are managed properly,” he said.

Ruku spoke after attending an interdenominational church service at Ciampiu Market in Thagichu, Mwingi North, Kitui County.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT 

Addressing grassroots leaders in Wote Town, Makueni County, Ruku opined that Kalonzo had denied the Kamba community opportunities to benefit from government programmes while personally enjoying State privileges.

"The government fuels Kalonzo Musyoka's motorcade, while he and his entire family enjoy Universal Health Coverage, yet he tells his fellow kinsmen that SHA and  other government's programmes are bad," Ruku said. He urged Kalonzo to join the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying that the veteran politician had exhausted his political career after serving in elective politics since the early 1980s.

"He has served in almost every ministry. I heard of him as a minister when I was still in primary school. The time has come for him to allow the Kamba people to see the light instead of using them for his personal political benefit," he said.

Ruku urged residents of the Ukambani region to abandon what he termed as community-based politics and instead support the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), which he described as a national political party.

"It is unfortunate that Wiper Patriotic Front  is largely viewed as a party for the Kamba community. It is time we moved away from ethnic political parties. If every community formed its own party, it would be detrimental to national unity. Development is driven by good leadership, not by the political party one belongs to," he said.

He credited President William Ruto's leadership for what he termed as UDA's national outlook and governance agenda that has spearheaded economic empowerment to communities and the nation at large.

The Cabinet Secretary also opined that Kalonzo Musyoka was being politically manipulated by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whom he accused of disrespecting fellow political leaders. He cited recent public disagreements involving Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, Party of National Unity leader Peter Munya and Democratic Empowerment Party leader Lenny Kivuti, saying the three had complained of coercion and disrespect from Gachagua.

"It is only a matter of time before Kalonzo finds himself in the same situation," Ruku stated.

Turning to the politics of the Mt Kenya region, Ruku said the journey towards economic and political independence of Mt Kenya East had taken off and the communities were prepared to chart their own political and economic paths following the resolutions by the Njuri Ncheke Council of Elders.

"It is time for Mt Kenya East to move forward with political and economic independence without looking back. When you aim an arrow at President William Ruto, you are also targeting our son, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, who comes from Mt Kenya East," he said in reference to political attacks by DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua.

Ruku also criticised Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi, accusing him of unfairly attacking him despite his respect for the former Attorney General and Speaker of National Assembly.

"I respect JB Muturi as my father and elder because I am age mates with his son. He should stop making unfounded claims against me. I led the team that defeated him in the recent Mbeere North by-election. As an elder, let him not mislead the people of Mbeere and the larger Mt Kenya East region," he said.

He defended his brief tenure as Mbeere North MP, saying he had successfully lobbied for nearly 70 kilometres of roads and other development projects under the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Ruku further appealed to Muturi, Munya and Kivuti to work closely with Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki in championing the interests of Mt Kenya East, warning that failure to unite the three leaders will be humiliated by Gachagua's "vengeance and divisive politics".

The Cabinet Secretary also urged Opposition leaders to abandon what he termed as politically motivated campaigns against the Kenya Kwanza administration. He maintained that President William Ruto's government was serving all Kenyans regardless of how they voted in the 2022 General Election.

On development, Ruku said the government had allocated Sh9.7 billion to facilitate the completion of the Thwake Dam by 2026, saying the project would unlock the agricultural potential of Makueni County through expanded irrigation.

He also highlighted the proposed National Infrastructure Fund, projected to mobilise Sh3.5 trillion, saying it would accelerate investments in information technology, infrastructure, roads, water projects and last-mile electricity connectivity across the country.

The Cabinet Secretary further directed Chief Executive Officers of State corporations and government agencies to fast-track the migration of their institutions to the Human Resource Information System (HRIS).

Ruku emphasised that the government's directives on the implementation of HRIS were mandatory and warned that administrative action would be taken against any accounting officer or chief executive who failed to facilitate the onboarding process. "All Cabinet directives must be implemented. Any CEO who fails to onboard their institution onto HRIS will face administrative action," he said.

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Speaking during separate public meetings in Chuka/Igambang'ombe Constituency in Tharaka Nithi County and Kiritiri in Mbeere South Constituency, Embu County, Ruku said recent political developments had demonstrated that Gachagua no longer valued the contribution of the three leaders, warning that they risked being sidelined if they continued associating with him.

The Cabinet Secretary said Muturi, Munya and Kivuti are respected leaders in the Mt Kenya East region and should unite behind Prof. Kindiki to strengthen the region's political voice and bargaining power ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Ruku accused Gachagua of repeatedly falling out and unilaterally attacking political allies, citing his public attacks on former President Uhuru Kenyatta as an example. He noted that the former Deputy President had developed a habit of publicly criticising leaders with divergent opinions, describing his leadership style as divisive and harmful to regional unity.

He further stated that Gachagua was attempting to isolate the Mt Kenya region from the national government, warning that such an approach would undermine development and economic opportunities for residents.

The Cabinet Secretary urged residents to continue supporting the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the government's performance should be judged by the development projects being implemented across the region. He highlighted key infrastructure projects in Mbeere South, including the Kiambere–New Site Road, the Machanga–PI Road and the Kamburu Bulk Water Project, saying they would improve transport, boost economic activity and expand access to clean water.

Ruku maintained that President William Ruto's administration and Deputy President Prof. Kindiki remained committed to accelerating development in the Mt Kenya region through continued investment in infrastructure and public services. He dismissed claims that Gachagua held exclusive political influence over the region, insisting that no individual had the authority to determine the political direction of the Mt Kenya community.

The Cabinet Secretary appealed to leaders and residents of Mt Kenya East to unite behind President Ruto and Prof. Kindiki, saying cooperation with the national government would guarantee sustained development and a stronger political position for the region ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The CS  was accompanied by Chuka/Igambang'ombe MP Patrick Munene,  Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi, Lafey MP Mohammed Abdi and Taveta MP John Bwire who also urged residents to support the government's development agenda and maintain unity behind the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Ruku further noted that it was former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who has a problem with the government, and not the Kikuyu community, urging members of the Kikuyu diaspora not to allow political differences involving one individual to influence their support for the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The CS  was accompanied by Chuka/Igambang'ombe MP Patrick Munene,  Kitutu Chache North MP Japheth Nyakundi, Lafey MP Mohammed Abdi, Taveta MP John Bwire who also urged residents to support the government's development agenda and maintain unity behind the Kenya Kwanza administration.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT 

Speaking after a Sunday Mass at St. Joseph's Catholic Cathedral in Meru Town, Ruku said Uhuru and other leaders from Mt Kenya region had traversed the country assuring Kenyans that after Uhuru completed his constitutionally mandated 10 years in office, President Ruto would equally be supported to serve his two five-year terms.

He questioned why the two leaders were now, in his view, seeking to rally the region against President Ruto before the completion of his constitutional tenure. "They went across the country asking Kenyans to support this arrangement. Why are they now making the people of Mt Kenya appear as though they cannot honour a promise they made before the nation?" Ruku posed.

The Cabinet Secretary accused the two leaders of spreading what he termed as false narratives that the Kenya Kwanza administration had sidelined the Mt Kenya region, saying such claims were intended to create divisions and advance personal political interests rather than promote development.

Ruku further said that Gachagua was turning his personal political troubles into a community issue following his removal from office. He argued that the former Deputy President was removed by Members of Parliament over what he described as failure to effectively discharge his constitutional responsibilities and should not drag the entire Mt Kenya region into his political battles.

The Cabinet Secretary maintained that President Ruto had no dispute with the Mt Kenya region, stating  the country's most influential ministries, state departments and government positions are  headed by leaders from Mt Kenya West. He added that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki occupies the only top-ranking office currently held by a leader from Mt Kenya East.

Ruku further stated that Gachagua and some leaders from Mt Kenya West were seeking to undermine Deputy President Kindiki by subjecting him to constant criticism and disrespect while simultaneously urging residents to abandon the Kenya Kwanza administration.

He said such political attacks were divisive and insisted that Mt Kenya East would remain firmly in government and continue supporting President Ruto's development agenda.

"Mt Kenya East will remain in government. We shall continue supporting President Ruto because our priority is development, unity and ensuring our people benefit from government programmes," he said.

Ruku maintained that President Ruto had continued implementing development projects across the country, including in the Mt Kenya East region that had been been neglected, quoting data from KNBS.

He urged residents to reject leaders whom he accused of pursuing personal political interests through misinformation, expressing confidence that the Mt Kenya region would overwhelmingly support President Ruto's re-election in the 2027 General Election.

By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT 

Speaking in Mauche, Njoro Constituency, Nakuru County, Ruku accused Gachagua of attempting to hold the Mt. Kenya region at ransom through what he described as divisive politics and sustained attacks against the Kenya Kwanza administration.

The Cabinet Secretary dismissed claims that the Mt. Kenya region had fallen out with President William Ruto, arguing that the differences were personal to Gachagua following his impeachment from office. "There is no problem between the Kikuyu community and President William Ruto. The problem is one individual, Rigathi Gachagua, who has a personal grievance after he was impeached for failing to discharge his responsibilities as the Deputy President," Ruku said.

He noted that both Gachagua and Kindiki come from the Mt. Kenya region but said the two leaders had demonstrated contrasting records in office.

According to Ruku, Kindiki has distinguished himself through effective leadership, loyalty and service as Deputy President, earning President Ruto's confidence, while Gachagua failed to meet the expectations of the office.

The Cabinet Secretary further accused the former Deputy President of pursuing politics driven by vengeance and hatred, urging him to abandon divisive rhetoric and instead support national unity and development.

Ruku maintained that Kindiki remains President Ruto's trusted deputy and that his position in government was secure. He dismissed speculation over the Deputy President's future, saying President Ruto had full confidence in Kindiki and intends to retain him as his running mate in the 2027 General Election.

He also rejected assertions that the Mt. Kenya region was abandoning the Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting that residents continue to support the government's development agenda and appreciate ongoing infrastructure and economic programmes.

Ruku urged leaders to focus on uniting the country instead of engaging in political campaigns that foster division, saying cooperation between leaders and citizens would accelerate development and improve the livelihoods of Kenyans.

He added that the Mt. Kenya region has benefited significantly from key government appointments and development initiatives under the Kenya Kwanza administration, and called on residents to safeguard those gains by remaining united behind President Ruto, Deputy President Kindiki and the government.

By SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT 

Speaking at Ontulili in Buuri Constituency, Meru County, Ruku singled out his Cabinet colleague, Cooperative Development Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, and other ODM leaders, accusing them of undermining Prof. Kindiki through persistent public debate over the Deputy President's position.

"The office of the Deputy President is occupied. It is wrong for leaders to continue discussing it as though it were vacant. Such conversations amount to disrespect to the Deputy President and the institution he serves," Ruku said.

The CS maintained that Prof. Kindiki remains President William Ruto's preferred running mate for the 2027 General Election and dismissed speculation about possible changes to the Kenya Kwanza ticket.

Ruku argued that ODM leaders should instead focus on other political positions that may emerge through future negotiations rather than targeting the Deputy President's office.

He further observed that leaders from the Western region already hold influential positions in government, including the Prime Cabinet Secretary's office and the Speaker of the National Assembly, adding that the Mt Kenya region would not accept being sidelined in the  political arrangements ahead of the 2027 polls.

"The Mt Kenya region will firmly stand behind the Ruto-Kindiki ticket in 2027. Thereafter, we shall rally behind Prof. Kindiki for the presidency in 2032," he said.

While acknowledging that political negotiations are a normal feature of coalition politics, Ruku said such engagements should be conducted respectfully and without undermining leaders already serving in constitutional offices.

"It is acceptable for political parties to negotiate for positions, but not in the manner some ODM leaders are doing by creating the impression that the Deputy President's office is up for grabs," he added.

The Cabinet Secretary also turned his attention to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of plotting against President Ruto. Ruku claimed that similar attempts by some leaders from the Mt Kenya West region to undermine former President Daniel arap Moi had failed, and predicted that efforts against President Ruto would meet the same fate.

He reaffirmed that the Mt Kenya region would continue supporting President Ruto "come rain or sunshine," saying the Kenya Kwanza administration remains united and focused on implementing its development agenda ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Ruku was accompanied by MPs Mugambi Rindikiri (Buuri), Patrick Munene (Chuka Igamba Ng'ombe) and John Bwire (Taveta) who echoed his sentiments throwing their weight behind President William Ruto and his Deputy Kithure Kindiki for second term in 2027)

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

Senator Mundigi dismissed the claims as “cheap propaganda,” amid intense lobbying from Western and Nyanza voting blocs within the Broad-based government who are eying the slot.

He maintained that Kindiki was still President Ruto’s preferred running mate in a move that resonates with Mt. Kenya East leaders who view Ruto-Kindiki presidential ticket as non-negotiable.

He told off the critics by reminding them that the President values Mt. Kenya Region and that is why he gave back the seat to one of their own following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. “President Ruto acknowledges the contribution of the region to his 2022 victory and cannot just take away the second in command position from the area just like that,” he stated, adding that the Ruto-Kindiki ticket was locked for 2027 polls.

Senator Mundigi said Kindiki had also proven that he was fit for the job for the period he had served as DP. He said Kindiki's performance as a dedicated, efficient and highly competent principal assistant to the president cements his place on the 2027 presidential ticket. “We are telling those eyeing the seat to hold their horses, maintaining that the current executive set up will continue in 2027 as we also plan to propel Kindiki to the presidency in 2032,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mundigi appealed to the region to stand firm behind Kindiki to build a formidable force that would make it impossible for him to be dropped without triggering a fallout.

He also appealed for the region to reject division politics in the region that he said would only serve to weaken its bargaining power ahead of 2027 general elections. “Our unity has been our strength for decades and fragmentation into small voting blocs would essentially mean that we surrender that leverage,” he stated.

Mundigi also criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of using inflammatory remarks against leaders from the Mt. Kenya region who have chosen to support President Ruto's administration.

The Embu county senator claimed that during his recent visit to Embu, Gachagua made disrespectful remarks against elected leaders aligned with the Kenya Kwanza government. Mundigi defended the leaders, saying every Kenyan has a constitutional right to support the political leader of their choice without intimidation or ridicule.