Mwea, Kirinyaga County – Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has called on the Mt Kenya community to remain united and honor past political commitments, stressing that credibility and trust are essential for the region’s continued relevance in national politics.
Speaking on Saturday, February 7, 2026, during the launch of the Mutithi Health Centre maternity wing, Waiguru reminded residents of the pact made during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure, popularly known as “Yangu kumi, ya Ruto kumi.”
“Uhuru himself said ‘yangu kumi, ya Ruto kumi’. As Mt Kenya, we must honour our promise. Politics is about trust, and once you break trust, no one takes you seriously again,” Waiguru said.
Warning Against Division
Waiguru cautioned that despite Mt Kenya’s large voting bloc, the region cannot form a government alone without alliances. She warned that betrayal and internal divisions could isolate the community nationally.
“We may have the numbers, but numbers alone cannot build a government. If Mt Kenya becomes known for breaking agreements, other communities will simply walk away from us,” she noted.
In a sharp critique of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Waiguru said his impeachment had weakened his political standing and diminished his ability to champion regional interests.
“Leadership is about direction and credibility. You cannot lead people when you have lost both. Mt Kenya must be careful not to follow leaders who have no clear political path,” she said.
She urged residents not to abandon the current administration during difficult times, likening political loyalty to repairing a house rather than leaving it when challenges arise.
“You do not abandon the house you built simply because it is raining. You stay, fix the roof, and move forward together,” Waiguru told the crowd.
Rising Political Temperatures
Waiguru’s remarks come amid heightened political activity in Mt Kenya as leaders reposition themselves ahead of future national contests. Loyalty to President Ruto has emerged as a key dividing line within the region.
Kirinyaga Central MP Gachoki Gitari strongly defended Waiguru, praising her development record and suggesting her growing national stature has unsettled rivals.
“Many second-term governors relax and wait for their term to end, but you have continued to deliver. Now that you are a true daughter of the mountain, you are making some men sleepless. They feel threatened because they know you can be picked as Deputy President,” Gitari said.
Conclusion
Governor Waiguru’s call for unity underscores the delicate balance Mt Kenya leaders must strike between regional solidarity and national alliances. As political temperatures rise, her remarks highlight the importance of credibility, trust, and strategic positioning in shaping the community’s future role in Kenya’s politics.
