Mutahi Kahiga Ditches Gachagua, Reaffirms Support For Ruto

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has publicly dismissed claims that he has shifted political allegiance to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, insisting that he remains firmly behind President William Ruto.

Speaking during a church service held on Sunday, January 11, in Othaya Constituency, Kahiga said the focus should now be on service delivery rather than endless political debates. He urged leaders to concentrate on development issues affecting Nyeri residents and Kenyans as a whole.

The governor clarified that he is still a fully registered member of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), putting to rest reports suggesting that he had joined Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

“President William Ruto is my president. I voted for him, and there is no confusion about that. This is not the season for politics. It is time to work. Politics will come later,” Kahiga said.

He added that he has not defected from UDA and described himself as a loyal and fully paid-up party member. Kahiga dismissed claims that he frequently switches sides, saying leadership requires clear direction and commitment.

“I don’t want to be like Wi-Fi that connects everywhere. A leader must have a plan and stand by it,” he stated.

Kahiga was in the company of President Ruto during the church service, a move that came just days after he hosted Gachagua at a rally in Nyeri on Friday, January 9. His presence at both events had fueled speculation about his political alignment.

The governor’s remarks come against the backdrop of shifting political alliances following Gachagua’s impeachment in 2024. Since then, Kahiga has found himself at the centre of political debate, with both UDA and DCP at times distancing themselves from his statements.

He acknowledged that disagreements with leaders from both sides had left him politically isolated at one point, prompting him to clarify his position publicly.

Despite previously being one of President Ruto’s sharpest critics in the Mount Kenya region, Kahiga said the presidency must be respected and that Nyeri County must remain part of the national government to benefit from development.

In recent years, Kahiga has accused the national government of sidelining the Mount Kenya region in development projects, claims that intensified political tension. His controversial remarks in 2025 led to public backlash and eventually forced him to step down as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors, a position later filled by Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki.

Even so, the Nyeri governor has continued to accompany President Ruto during official tours in the region, explaining that such appearances are part of his responsibilities as county boss.

Observers view Kahiga’s renewed public support for Ruto as a move aimed at safeguarding development projects in Nyeri, despite ongoing political differences.

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