Former Embakasi West MP George Theuri has joined a growing list of political leaders who have publicly distanced themselves from the camp of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, signaling deepening cracks within the Mt Kenya political bloc.
Theuri announced that he now supports President William Ruto, marking a clear departure from Gachagua’s faction. His exit is particularly significant given his previous role as Director of Youth Affairs in former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s office, a position that placed him close to the centre of Gachagua’s political operations.
In his remarks, Theuri said his decision was driven by the need to align with leadership that prioritizes unity, inclusivity, and effective governance. He accused Gachagua of fostering a leadership style that is rigid and unresponsive, echoing sentiments that have been raised by other leaders who have since left the camp.
Theuri’s move adds to a list of notable defections that includes Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba and Juja MP George Koimburi, both of whom have previously fallen out with Gachagua. Wamuchomba has been openly critical of Gachagua’s leadership, accusing him of intolerance to dissenting views and sidelining leaders who do not toe the line. Koimburi, on the other hand, has also questioned Gachagua’s approach to regional politics, arguing that it risks isolating Mt Kenya from the broader national agenda.
Several other leaders who have exited Gachagua’s camp have made similar claims, stating that he is not a good listener and tends to centralize decision-making around a small circle of allies. These accusations have fueled debate over his leadership style and long-term influence within the region.
As more allies drift away, political analysts say the developments could weaken Gachagua’s grip on Mt Kenya politics while strengthening President Ruto’s position ahead of future political realignments.
