Battle for the Mountain: Kindiki vs. Gachagua – Rift Widens Amid Musician Boycott

By Gerald Mukembu

Rigathi Gachagua-Former Deputy president

Tensions in the Mt. The Kenya political landscape escalated as Interior CS Kithure Kindiki publicly challenged former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over a growing fallout involving local musicians.
The fallout points to deeper fractures in the Mt. Kenya region’s political unity, with cultural icons now drawn into factional rivalries. As 2027 approaches, observers warn that the Mountain may be more divided than ever.

Kithure Kindiki- Deputy President
The region, once a political stronghold, now stands at a crossroads—caught between legacy politics, succession dynamics, and generational shifts. Whether leaders reconcile or the rift deepens could shape national politics moving forward.
In an emotional statement, Kindiki talked tough asking Gachagua to hold manners and respect him and Musicians within the region.
“I will perform and speed up the work of Deputy President with a speed of Miraa vehicle. Who are you to lecture us? Are you God to lecture Musicians and Politicians? Respect is two ways. We respect,you do the same. Do you think you can intimidate me? Those Musicians only came 50, I will invite 500 of them at my Karen residence. I am not a push over,” Kindiki said.
Kindiki defended his political legacy and questioned Gachagua’s contribution during the 2007 post-election crisis, emphasizing his own role in defending President Ruto at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“Is there anyone who fought for this government more than me? Before Uhuru and Ruto even came together, I was the one struggling for them at the Hague.”
Kindiki’s remarks come amid accusations that some musicians are boycotting government functions aligned with his camp.
He dismissed Gachagua’s criticism and dared him to provide evidence of disloyalty, warning.