TUKO.co.ke journalist Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

Nyeri governor Mutahi Kahiga, a close ally of former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, extended a warm welcome to President William Ruto as he embarked on a development tour across the Mt. Kenya region.

Speaking in Kieni, Nyeri County, Kahiga expressed his appreciation for the president’s commitment to improving the county’s infrastructure and healthcare services.

"I take this opportunity to welcome you to Kieni, Nyeri County, your excellency. We want to thank you because you have come bearing the gift of development. We have seen that you have brought more than KSh 850 million, which will go a long way in addressing the needs of our people. For a long time, this region has lagged behind in terms of development," Kahiga said.

The governor noted that the funds allocated to the county government are often insufficient to address pressing infrastructural challenges, particularly in road construction and maintenance.

He admitted that he had been struggling to improve the county’s road network due to financial constraints. However, he lauded Ruto for intervening and committing to upgrading healthcare facilities in the region.

"The money allocated to county governments is little, and I have struggled with road projects. That is why we are grateful that after our discussions, you agreed to upgrade our hospital here in Naromoru and promised to provide us with the necessary medical equipment to ensure better healthcare services for our people," he added.

Kahiga further emphasised his support for the president’s leadership, dismissing any notion that Ruto was unwelcome in Nyeri. He urged the head of state to visit the region frequently and continue implementing development projects.

"I thank the president for bringing development to our county. And today, I want to tell him, do not listen to those who say you should not come to Nyeri. We want you to visit again and again because every time you come, you bring development," he reiterated.

Kahiga’s remarks come amid growing tensions within Gachagua’s political camp, as some of his allies express differing views on how best to engage with the president.

Divisions have emerged in his camp, with allies questioning his leadership and Mt Kenya-focused strategy ahead of 2027. Though not officially a presidential contender, his efforts to rally opposition against Ruto are weakened by internal dissent, raising doubts about his ability to unite his base.

Key figures like activist George Morara and MP Gathoni Wamuchomba have urged Gachagua to adopt a more inclusive approach. Tensions escalated when Gen Z activist Morara Kebaso’s Inject Party cut ties with his faction, accusing him of promoting tribal politics.

Source: TUKO.co.ke