A section of Mt Kenya MPs, including Ndia MP George Kariuki and Juja MP George Koimburi, have rejected the endorsement of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the Mt Kenya spokesman. They argue that the region's leaders and residents were not consulted in the decision. Kariuki and Koimburi made their sentiments clear during a meeting at Kariuki's residence in Gacharu, Kirinyaga County, where they hosted a delegation from Juja Constituency.
Kariuki, who chairs the National Assembly Roads Committee, criticized the meeting at Kirigiti Stadium where Kindiki was presented as a leader of the Mt Kenya region. He said the event did not involve enough elected leaders from the region, with only one MP from the central region in attendance. Kariuki questioned how the event could be portrayed as a broader Mt Kenya affair, saying that political leadership should be based on engagement with residents and local leaders.
Kariuki and Koimburi also questioned the process through which Kindiki was being presented as the region's spokesman, saying he should first seek consensus among local leaders and residents. They expressed concerns that Kindiki's endorsement was being done without the input of the region's elected leaders, who are best placed to understand the needs and aspirations of their constituents.
The two MPs further criticized calls to divide the Mt Kenya region into two political blocs, accusing those supporting the idea of being behind the Kirigiti meeting. Kariuki said that the region does not need politics of division, and that leaders should focus on uniting the people rather than creating unnecessary conflicts.
Koimburi accused Kindiki of failing to consult elected leaders before holding meetings in their constituencies, saying that this could lead to misunderstandings and conflict. He emphasized the importance of respecting the role of elected representatives and involving residents in decisions affecting their constituencies.
Koimburi also claimed that Kindiki had failed to respond to his calls and messages, and that Mt Kenya leaders should have a role in determining President William Ruto's running mate ahead of the 2027 General Election. He expressed support for Kariuki to become Ruto's running mate, saying that Mt Kenya should be given an opportunity to determine who occupies the position.
Kariuki acknowledged that the region should be allowed to choose Ruto's running mate, while expressing his own interest in being considered for the position. He said that he was focused on being considered for the Deputy President's position, and that he was not interested in contesting for the Senate or governorship. The two MPs said they would continue pushing for unity in Mt Kenya and mutual respect among leaders regardless of their political positions.
Key points
- Mt Kenya MPs reject Kindiki's endorsement as spokesman
- Kariuki and Koimburi cite lack of consultation with local leaders and residents
- MPs express support for Kariuki as potential running mate for President Ruto
