Protests Erupt in Kirinyaga Over Gachagua’s Attack on Governor Waiguru
Hundreds of residents, mostly women, flooded the streets of Kirinyaga County on Monday, October 13, 2025, protesting remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against Governor Anne Waiguru. The demonstration triggered road blockades and bonfires along Kutus-Samson Road.
Public Outrage Over Disparaging Remarks
The protests followed Gachagua’s comments during a Sunday church service at Ambassador of Christ Church in Mwea. There, he labeled Mount Kenya leaders allied with Kenya Kwanza as “traitors” and singled out Waiguru, accusing her of planning to form a new political party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Demonstrators carried placards reading “The Choice is Ours” and “Respect Women Leaders,” rejecting what they described as political coercion and disrespect toward an elected female leader.
“He Insults Us When He Insults Her”
Protesters emphasized that Waiguru’s mandate came directly from voters. “When he insults the governor, he is also insulting us,” said one woman. Others accused Gachagua’s allies of eyeing Waiguru’s seat rather than serving the people.
Gachagua had also blamed Kirinyaga leaders for failing to protect local rice farmers in Mwea, claiming their silence enabled government rice imports that hurt local producers.
Mount Kenya Tensions Escalate
The backlash reflects growing friction within the Mount Kenya political bloc. Over the weekend, Mbeere South MP Nebart Muriuki—a Gachagua ally—was forced to flee a hostile crowd in Kiritiri market after residents turned against his mobilization efforts.
Governor Waiguru, currently in her second and final term, is widely expected to run for Senate in 2027. Her supporters view Gachagua’s attacks as an attempt to undermine her influence and destabilize local leadership.
Authorities monitored the Kirinyaga protests but reported no major injuries. Traffic gradually resumed after demonstrators dispersed in the late afternoon.
