Governors Kihika, Mbarire Warn Against Gachagua’s ‘Divisive Politics’ Ahead Of Elections

By Suleiman Mbatiah

Women leaders allied to the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) have criticised opposition figures over what they describe as divisive politics that could heighten tensions as the country approaches the next general election.

Speaking in Nakuru, the leaders singled out former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of promoting tribal politics and warning that no leader can secure electoral victory based on support from a single community or region.

Led by Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, the leaders warned against a relapse into the violence seen during the 2007–2008 post-election crisis, urging restraint, national unity, and responsible political conduct ahead of the upcoming general elections.

The Governor singled out at a recent tour of Nakuru County by the united opposition brigade where she said the politicians used most of their time to insult her, her spouse and businessman Sam Mburu and President William Ruto.

“Nakuru County is a cosmopolitan region. We can’t entertain divisive politics here. We live like brothers and sisters,” Governor Kihika said at a forum to honor and support Ngata FC following impressive performance.

She maintained that Nakuru remains a stronghold of the UDA and expressed confidence that the party would secure all elective seats in the upcoming polls, while referencing at the recent by-elections across the country.

Governor Kihika also highlighted ongoing development initiatives under the administration of President William Ruto, including the construction of markets, affordable housing, road networks and agricultural programmes.

While noting the economic benefits of these projects, she said they would create employment opportunities for hundreds of young people and urged them to enrol in vocational training institutions to enhance their skills.

Governor Kihika’s administration has made all technical and vocational courses free, with parents only covering lunch and exam fees, while county bursaries support needy students to ensure broader access to skills training and education.

“When we got into office, fertilizer was retailing at Sh7,000. The President has worked and ensured the fertilizer is down to Sh2,500 and our farmers are leaping from high yields,” she stated.

At the same time, the Governor criticised Nakuru Senator Tabitha Karanja, accusing her of failing to fulfil her oversight role and engaging in what she termed as political witch-hunts, adding that such conduct does not demonstrate leadership qualities required for higher office.

She attributed delays in the disbursement of bursaries to a court case filed by activists, expressing optimism that the funds would be released within the coming weeks.

Embu Governor and UDA chairperson Cecile Mbarire called on residents to stay loyal to the ruling party, warning that shifting support to the opposition could undermine development gains and disrupt ongoing government programmes in the region.

She said her more than 25 years in elective politics, including two terms under Mwai Kibaki and two under Uhuru Kenyatta, had convinced her that development is best achieved from within government ranks.

She revealed when Rigathi was impeached, he thought all women Governors could follow him out in protest but it never happened because Governors Kihika, Waiguru and herself knew where their people should be.

“I know the difference between being in government and in opposition. That’s why ODM has joined the government. The only way to bring development is being in the government. Nothing in opposition,” she emphasized.

Governor Mbarire argued that leaders operating outside government face limitations in delivering development, adding that opposition politics, as currently practiced, lacks a clear agenda.

“Politics of lies, insults and propaganda will not benefit anyone,” she said, urging residents to rally behind Governor Kihika and reaffirming that Nakuru remains firmly aligned with the UDA and its development agenda.