Tharaka Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki has raised concerns that the Mt Kenya region could miss out on significant government benefits if Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua continues to pursue a different path from that of President William Ruto.

Speaking during a series of meetings in Tharaka Nithi, where he was commissioning development projects, Governor Njuki emphasized the importance of aligning with the President to ensure the region’s development needs are met.

Governor Njuki highlighted two recent instances where DP Gachagua’s actions have diverged from the President’s agenda.

The first was an event in Nyeri last Sunday, and the second was a State House meeting held on Friday, both of which the Deputy President did not attend.

Mr Njuki expressed his concern that such actions could jeopardize the region’s access to government resources and development projects.

“The people of Mt Kenya would be losing the plot in following DP Gachagua, who continues to disregard the President,” Mr Njuki stated.

He warned that if the Deputy President continues on that path, the region might have to reconsider its political strategy and leadership.

In light of these concerns, Governor Njuki proposed that the region should formally endorse Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the primary liaison between Mt Kenya and President Ruto.

He argued that Prof Kindiki, who has shown a strong commitment to the President’s agenda, would be a more effective representative for the region’s interests.

“We need someone who has direct access to the President and can deliver our messages effectively,” he said.

“If it’s Prof Kindiki who has access to the President and delivers our message, how will we refuse to say he’s the man?”

Despite his criticisms of DP Gachagua, Governor Njuki made it clear that he does not support calls for the Deputy President’s impeachment.

“There is no need to impeach DP Gachagua,” he said, emphasizing that the focus should be on ensuring effective representation for the region rather than political infighting.

His remarks come at a time when there is a seemingly growing support within the Mt Kenya region for Interior CS Kindiki.

Recently, a group of 48 MPs from the region endorsed CS Kindiki as their intermediary with the national government, citing his ability to champion their development concerns.

Additionally, several Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) from various counties within Mt Kenya have also backed CS Kindiki as their link to the Kenya Kwanza government.

The Governor’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among some leaders in the region who believe that aligning closely with President Ruto is crucial for securing development projects and government support.

Mr Njuki stressed that the region worked hard to bring the Kenya Kwanza government to power and should not let internal disagreements undermine their efforts.

“We worked so hard to put the Kenya Kwanza government in office for us to now let ‘outsiders’ enjoy the fruits of our labour,” he said.

“If you don’t want to go for it, there are others who will come and take it. So if you see us following the President, we are not fools.”

As the political dynamics within the Mt Kenya region continue to evolve, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the region’s relationship with the national government and its access to development resources.

Governor Njuki’s call for unity and strategic alignment with President Ruto underscores the importance of cohesive leadership in achieving the region’s development goals.