Kindiki, Gachagua lock horns over illicit brews in Mt Kenya
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua are competing for political influence in Kenya's Mt Kenya region. A central point of contention is the government's crackdown on illicit alcohol, which has caused several deaths in the area.
Why it matters
The struggle highlights the intersection of public health crises and political maneuvering in the lead-up to the 2027 Kenyan General Election.
DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at a past function /HANDOUT As the scramble for Mt Kenya region intensifies ahead of the 2027 General Election, the fight against illicit alcohol has emerged as a major battleground between Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua.
Since the fallout between President William Ruto and Gachagua following the latter’s impeachment in October 2024, the region has become a political contest between State officials and the Opposition, with both sides seeking to consolidate their influence.
Agriculture, government funding for development projects and the resurgence of illicit brews have emerged as key campaign issues, with the latter carrying significant social and political weight.
The region comprises Nyeri, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Embu, Meru, Tharaka-Nithi, Nakuru and Laikipia counties.
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