Kiunjuri, Gachagua in war of words over Mt Kenya's soul

Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri. [File, Standard]

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri exchanged sharp words over the future of the Mt Kenya region.

Gachagua, currently in the United States, accused Kiunjuri and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa of collaborating with President William Ruto to undermine the Mt Kenya community.

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) accused Kiunjuri and other regional leaders of orchestrating business looting and youth arrests, urging Kenyans in the diaspora to influence locals not to reelect these leaders.

"The MPs for Kikuyu and Laikipia East are the greatest enemies of our community. All the attacks on businesses, killings, and arrests of young people are planned with Ruto. As you return, tell our people to never forget these traitors," Gachagua claimed.

In response, Kiunjuri accused Gachagua of bullying and criminalising dissent, calling his remarks unfounded, defamatory, and designed to incite hatred, disorder, and violence against those he brands enemies.

"Kenyans should see Rigathi for who he is: a reckless, violent, and uncouth dictator who cannot accept differing views. He calls for persecution of those he dislikes. His politics dangerously drift toward anarchy, and he must be held accountable," Kiunjuri said.

The Service Party (TSP) leader criticised Gachagua for having no real agenda for the Mt Kenya region, thriving instead on incitement and empty talk.

"I challenge those he addressed and all Kenyans to review his speeches and count how often he discusses development or regional challenges," he added.

He accused Gachagua of harbouring bitterness and seeking to violently settle political scores for selfish gain. "Violence is outdated and has no place in Kenya. He seems determined to lead Kenya into an abyss, which we will not allow," he warned.

Kiunjuri also condemned Gachagua's attempts to control cultural choices, citing his recent call to boycott music from artists who attended Senator Kithure Kindiki's event in Karen. "How did he become the custodian of Mt Kenya people's choices? Will he stop at nothing to dominate the region?" Kiunjuri asked.

He called for sane political competition and urged Gachagua to stop spreading disinformation and hatred.