Revealed: Why Kahiga attended Ruto’s meeting in Nyeri

By Newsflash Correspondent

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga’s decision to attend President William Ruto’s meeting in Nyeri has raised eyebrows, especially after his recent confrontational stance.

While many perceived him as a close ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, his appearance at the meeting signals a tactical shift in his political approach. But why did he make this move? Newsflash explores:

Avoiding confrontational politics

Kahiga has recently found himself at the center of political storms. His controversial “Kama ni mbaya, mbaya” (If it’s bad, then so be it) remarks in Mweiga were seen as a declaration of defiance against the national government. However, his presence at the Nyeri meeting suggests a recalibration of his political tone. Having apologized to the Maasai community over past remarks, Kahiga appears to be avoiding further political conflicts that could jeopardize his leadership.

“I am a leader for all people, and it is important that we work together to foster unity and development,” Kahiga previously stated when addressing his remarks.

Political pressure and strategic positioning

Reports indicate that Kahiga faced political warnings from influential figures after he skipped President Ruto’s meeting with Mt Kenya governors last week. His absence had fueled speculation that he was aligning himself with Gachagua’s rebellious faction. Political analysts argue that Kahiga was walking a tightrope, trying to balance loyalty to Gachagua while avoiding direct confrontation with Ruto’s administration.

“Kahiga is a smart politician. He understands that opposing the government head-on could expose him to state machinery, just like what happened to Natembeya,” says political analyst John Kamau. “By attending the meeting, he is signaling that he is willing to cooperate, at least on the surface.”

Shielding himself from state-orchestrated machinations

Governors who have opposed the government have faced significant political challenges, including threats of impeachment. Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who has been vocal against the Kenya Kwanza government, has faced such threats. Kahiga, as a seasoned politician, is likely avoiding similar machinations by ensuring that he remains engaged with the national leadership.

His role as the Council of Governors’ (CoG) Vice Chairperson further complicates his position. As a leader in the CoG, he has a national responsibility, and maintaining a cordial relationship with the President helps him sustain that stature. “A leader at that level has to be calculative. He has no choice but to engage with the national government,” notes analyst Lucy Njoroge.

Cooperation for Nyeri’s development

Despite political undertones, Kahiga has reiterated his commitment to working with the national government for the benefit of Nyeri residents. “We must work together to deliver services to our people. That is what leadership is all about,” he remarked in a recent county function.

Sources close to the governor, however, told Newsflash that Kahiga still maintains strong ties with Gachagua.

While his attendance at Ruto’s meeting may appear as a shift in allegiance, insiders believe that he is simply playing his cards wisely, keeping all options open as Mt Kenya politics continue to evolve.