Ruto’s Mount Kenya Tour: Key Development Projects, Political Drama, and Gachagua Fallout

President William Ruto’s recent visit to the Mount Kenya region has sparked intense political discussions and excitement among locals. The tour, which took place over five days in April 2025, saw Ruto launch several infrastructure projects, promote local businesses, and address key concerns within the region. But this visit was not just about development—it also highlighted growing political tension, particularly regarding the fallout between Ruto and his former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua. In this article, we explore Ruto’s Mount Kenya tour, the ongoing political drama, and the implications for the region’s future.

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Ruto’s Mount Kenya Tour: Major Development Projects

Ruto’s visit to Mount Kenya showcased significant development efforts aimed at improving infrastructure and economic conditions in the region. Key highlights included the inauguration of the Last Mile Connectivity Programme, which will electrify 10,000 households in Laikipia County. Additionally, Ruto launched affordable housing projects in Nanyuki and the Nanyuki Modern Market, boosting both housing and commerce in the area. These projects were widely praised by the local population, showing the administration’s commitment to regional growth.

The president also made symbolic gestures, such as providing a school bus to Dr. Wachira Secondary School and distributing car wash machines to local boda boda operators. These actions not only promote local businesses but also help build trust with the region’s residents.

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Political Context: Ruto and Gachagua’s Fallout

While Ruto’s Mount Kenya tour focused on development, it also shed light on the strained political relationship between the president and his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua. The controversy surrounding Gachagua’s impeachment in 2024 has left the political landscape in turmoil. Gachagua, who was once seen as Ruto’s closest ally, was impeached on charges of corruption, insubordination, and ethnic discrimination.

The fallout between Ruto and Gachagua has fueled numerous conspiracy theories, with some claiming that Ruto orchestrated Gachagua’s impeachment to consolidate power. Ruto himself has claimed that Gachagua demanded Ksh.10 billion to mobilize support in the Mount Kenya region, a request that Ruto rejected. This public disagreement has deepened the rift between the two, with Gachagua now seeking new political avenues to challenge Ruto’s control of Mount Kenya.

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Impact on Mount Kenya Politics: Development vs. Allegiance

The political situation in Mount Kenya has become increasingly complicated as Ruto seeks to regain control over the region. Despite the positive reception of his development initiatives, opposition leaders argue that Ruto’s visit was politically motivated, designed to sway voters ahead of the 2027 elections. Critics claim that Ruto is using taxpayer money to secure political loyalty in Mount Kenya, a region that has been pivotal in Kenya’s political history.

However, the public’s response to Ruto’s tour has been largely positive. Many locals are appreciative of the tangible development projects and resources that have been allocated to schools, businesses, and community organizations. This support, combined with Ruto’s focus on regional issues, strengthens his position in Mount Kenya, even as political tensions simmer.

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Gachagua’s Political Moves and the Opposition’s Critique

While Ruto continues to consolidate his power, Gachagua has not been silent. Following his impeachment, Gachagua has made efforts to remain relevant in Kenya’s political scene, including seeking to acquire the Kenya Reforms Party and forming a new political movement. These moves suggest that Gachagua intends to challenge Ruto for control of Mount Kenya’s political future.

Meanwhile, the opposition has been critical of both Ruto’s development agenda and the power struggles within the ruling party. The political drama surrounding Gachagua’s impeachment has led some to view Ruto’s Mount Kenya tour as a strategic move designed to maintain political dominance, especially with the 2027 elections on the horizon.

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Looking Ahead: Mount Kenya and the 2027 Elections

As Kenya prepares for the 2027 elections, Mount Kenya will remain a key battleground. Ruto’s attempts to solidify his influence through development initiatives could be pivotal in determining the region’s future political landscape. However, Gachagua’s political maneuvering and the opposition’s criticisms suggest that the region remains politically volatile.

The conflict between Ruto and Gachagua is not just about personal power—it also reflects broader regional struggles over political representation, resource allocation, and the future direction of Kenya’s leadership. The outcome of this power struggle will have long-term consequences for Kenya’s political trajectory.

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Conclusion:

President Ruto’s Mount Kenya tour was not just about development—it was also a political play in a region that remains crucial to Kenya’s future. The fallout with Rigathi Gachagua, combined with ongoing public support and opposition critique, sets the stage for a political battle that will shape the upcoming election cycle. As the 2027 elections approach, all eyes will be on Mount Kenya to see how these political dynamics unfold.

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Image Credits:
The images used in this article are sourced from various platforms including The Star, Tuko, Daily Nation, Buzzroom Kenya, and Kasuni TV. All rights to the images are owned by the respective photographers and organizations. These images are used for illustrative purposes only and to enhance the content of the article.