Former Laikipia Woman Representative Cate Waruguru has acknowledged that President William Ruto’s administration continues to enjoy a political advantage in the Mt Kenya region, even as public dissatisfaction with the government steadily grows.
In a Facebook post shared on Friday morning, January 30, Waruguru—an ally of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—described Mt Kenya voters as pragmatic and results-driven, noting that political realities cannot be ignored as the country reflects on its future direction.
According to Waruguru, the ruling administration benefits from the power of incumbency, including access to state machinery, visibility, and the absence of a clearly unified alternative political force—factors she said have historically influenced voting patterns in Kenya and continue to shape Mt Kenya politics.
However, she cautioned that incumbency alone is no longer sufficient to guarantee public trust. Waruguru pointed to the high cost of living, which she said is placing immense pressure on households, farmers, and small businesses, while widening a trust gap between citizens and their leaders.
She also raised concerns over governance, arguing that the recent SHA scandal has intensified questions around transparency, accountability, and the government’s priorities, further complicating its relationship with voters in the region.
Turning her attention to the opposition, Waruguru called for a shift in strategy, urging leaders to move away from perpetual political gamesmanship and instead focus on people-centred economic policies, institutional credibility, and swift action in areas where citizens are most affected.
Her remarks come at a time when President Ruto and the UDA party are stepping up efforts to reclaim political ground in Mt Kenya following Gachagua’s impeachment in October 2024.
In recent months, the ruling party has intensified grassroots engagements, with leaders returning to the region and President Ruto making high-profile visits, including a major UDA event held in Nyeri, Gachagua’s home county.
Tags
Politics