In a striking display of political pragmatism amid Kenya’s volatile Mt Kenya landscape, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has publicly declared his unwavering support for President William Ruto, emphasising development over division as the country edges closer to the 2027 general election.
Church service marks public alignment
Addressing worshippers at St Paul’s Church in Kariki Chinga, Othaya, on 11 January 2026 — during a service attended by President Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki — Kahiga, once a vocal critic of the head of state, said the demands of governance had shifted his stance. He insisted cooperation with the national government was essential to deliver tangible benefits to Nyeri residents.
“I voted for President William Ruto. He is my sitting president and I am the governor of this area. I don’t understand why you are confused,” Kahiga told the congregation. “So far, I haven’t heard of any other president and for now I am still supporting him.”
Mt Kenya realignments intensify
The governor’s remarks arrive against a backdrop of intense realignments in the Mt Kenya region, a key vote bloc that propelled Ruto to power in 2022 but has since fractured following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in late 2024. Gachagua, now leading the Democracy for Citizens Party, has mounted a vocal opposition campaign, drawing support from disaffected leaders and residents frustrated with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Kahiga, long perceived as a close ally of Gachagua, had hosted the former deputy president at a rally in Nyeri just two days earlier on 9 January. Yet, seated prominently beside Ruto during the church service, he reaffirmed his loyalty to the ruling United Democratic Alliance, describing himself as a fully paid-up member.
“As the sitting governor, I have to come and welcome him here. We discuss governance and we are on duty,” Kahiga said. “When political time comes, if locals decide to give me another term, they will show. If they retire me, I am ready to come to church and serve, and life goes on.”
Development before politics
He stressed the need to separate service delivery from campaigning. “In politics, there are no permanent friends or permanent enemies. People can always work together,” he noted, urging residents to prioritise development now and reserve politicking for later. “Let us differentiate times and seasons. When it is time for development, let’s work. When politics comes, play politics. But for now, let’s support the government to work for us.”
Kahiga referenced past turbulence, including criticism from digital strategist Dennis Itumbi that drew fire from both United Democratic Alliance and Democracy for Citizens Party camps, leaving him “confused.” He said he ultimately turned to constituents for guidance, advocating a structured movement over theatrics.
In a pointed remark interpreted as targeting Gachagua and former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi — both of whom have criticised the administration post-appointment — Kahiga said: “If leaders have been appointed to serve the people, they should stand and work for the government, not work for a man and then speak badly about him. If you see they are not serving you, Mr President, demote them and we will give you other people. I shoot straight.”
The event underscores Ruto’s ongoing efforts to shore up support in his 2022 stronghold through development projects, including affordable housing and modern markets in Nyeri. Analysts view Kahiga’s pivot as a pragmatic bid to secure resources for his county while navigating the region’s deepening divide between pro-Ruto loyalists and Gachagua’s growing opposition network.
For now, Kahiga positions himself as a development-focused governor prioritising results over rivalry, signalling at least temporary stability for Kenya Kwanza in Nyeri — even as the broader Mt Kenya battle for 2027 intensifies.
