Politics in the Mt. Kenya region continues to gather momentum as politicians realign themselves with different political parties ahead of the next General Election in a bid to secure their places on the ballot and strengthen their chances of victory.
The latest political shift involves Nyeri gubernatorial aspirant Tuo Mathenge, popularly known as “Wanguku,” who has dissolved his party, The National Democrats (TND), and joined former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
Speaking to the media recently, Mathenge said his decision should not come as a surprise, noting that he has consistently advocated for unity among Mt. Kenya leaders, particularly between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, whose relationship deteriorated ahead of the 2022 General Election.
“I have always maintained that if we remain divided, we risk losing what is in store for us as Mt. Kenya leaders. We must unite and move forward with a common agenda,” Mathenge said.
He further revealed that Gachagua had given him the responsibility of leading DCP’s campaigns across the Mt. Kenya region, a role he said he would execute diligently and without fear.
Mathenge also served as the chairman of the Kenya Agricultural Livestock Organisation after being appointed by President William Ruto in November 2024, before the position was relinquished a few weeks later.
On several occasions, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had cautioned Mathenge that he risked losing political relevance if he continued opposing his political ideologies.
It now remains to be seen how Mathenge, widely known as “Wanguku,” will mount his campaign strategy as he seeks the Nyeri gubernatorial seat under the DCP banner.
