With Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua facing the threat of impeachment, intense political maneuvering has begun within the Mt. Kenya region to position possible successors. As Parliament deliberates on the motion that could remove Gachagua from office, President William Ruto finds himself in a delicate position, needing to select a new deputy if Gachagua is ousted. Known for his outspoken and divisive style, Gachagua's exit could create an opportunity for new leadership from either Mt. Kenya East or West, with prominent figures already strategizing behind the scenes.
Several influential leaders from the Mt. Kenya region are emerging as potential candidates for the deputy president position. Among those mentioned are Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome’s name has also surfaced in discussions. If Ruto opts to look beyond Mt. Kenya, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Environment Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale, and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka are also being considered as possible contenders.
Political insiders reveal that those vying for the position have already begun holding secret strategy meetings. One such meeting took place on Wednesday evening at a hotel outside Nairobi, with similar discussions occurring earlier in the week. "It’s no longer a question of 'if' but 'who' will replace Gachagua," one politician, who requested anonymity, said.
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Kithure Kindiki appears to be a frontrunner, having received multiple endorsements from Mt. Kenya leaders who see him as a capable bridge between the region and the national government. Many argue that since Kindiki narrowly missed being chosen as Ruto's running mate in 2022, he is best suited to take over the deputy presidency. "Kindiki deserves it," said former Igembe North MP Joseph M’eruaki, reflecting the sentiment of many in Mt. Kenya East.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, who chairs the influential Council of Governors, has also gained support, particularly from women governors under the G7 umbrella. Political analyst Javas Bigambo stressed that the next deputy president must have strong roots in Mt. Kenya and be someone capable of countering Gachagua’s influence in the region. "For Ruto to retain his popularity going into the 2027 political season, he needs a candidate from Central Kenya with national appeal," Bigambo explained.
There are also rumors that National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, a key figure in Ruto's camp, is eyeing the position. Senator Daniel Maanzo suggested that Ichung’wah has been pressuring the President to remove Gachagua in order to secure the deputy president role for himself.
Regardless of the outcome, it is widely believed that the next deputy president will come from Mt. Kenya to maintain regional stability and appease the political base. Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, a close ally of Ruto, confirmed this sentiment, stating that Mt. Kenya remains central to Ruto’s administration and will not be overlooked in the selection process.
Gachagua’s impeachment trial officially began last Tuesday, with Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse accusing the deputy president of promoting tribalism, abusing his office, and amassing unexplained wealth. If two-thirds of MPs—233 members—vote in favor of the motion, the matter will be referred to the Senate for further proceedings. Should the Senate find the charges substantiated, Gachagua will be removed from office, and Ruto will have the opportunity to nominate a successor, pending Parliament's approval.
