Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Writer
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has stirred political debate in the Mt Kenya region after alleging that associates of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have been pressuring her to join his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
Speaking during a meeting in Sagana on Tuesday, December 8, Waiguru said the calls have been persistent, but she has no intention of joining Gachagua’s party.
“I have been receiving calls… I have some of my people who have been pestering me to join Wamunyoro,” Waiguru told the gathering. “But as your leader, without any ill will, I will not join Wamunyoro.”
Her remarks come at a time when political realignments are rapidly taking shape across Mt Kenya as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Growing realignments in Mt Kenya
Waiguru’s comments follow closely on the heels of lawyer Ndegwa Njiru’s declaration that he is not aligned with Gachagua’s DCP, as widely believed. Njiru, who is eyeing the Kirinyaga Senatorial seat, clarified that he belongs to Kalonzo Musyoka’s Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) instead. His announcement added another twist to Kirinyaga’s political landscape, where alliances and loyalties are becoming increasingly fluid.
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Political analysts note that the region remains a battleground for competing interests as parties jostle for influence. Gachagua’s DCP has been attempting to build momentum, positioning itself as a potential alternative political vehicle for Mt Kenya voters ahead of 2027. Waiguru’s refusal, however, signals potential resistance from established leaders within the county.
Murango fires back
Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango, a staunch supporter of Gachagua and a declared aspirant for the Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat in 2027, sharply dismissed Waiguru’s remarks, accusing her of political doublespeak and opportunism. He claimed the governor was attempting to shift allegiances while attacking DCP without basis.
“You got fed up with UDA, now you want to join Jubilee while insulting DCP,” Murango said. “Governor Waiguru, we as Kirinyaga people know your cunning ways. You use people and later dump them for political expediency.”
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Murango further alleged that Waiguru was seeking to join the Opposition “through the backdoor,” noting that Jubilee—her perceived destination—is part of the United Opposition alongside DCP and Wiper.
“We would like to tell our governor that if you want a girl, don’t go through the window, but the door,” the Senator added, suggesting that Waiguru should declare her political intentions openly instead of making indirect moves.
Waiguru has been one of Gachagua’s most vocal critics from the region, often clashing with him over political direction and influence within Mt Kenya.
