A significant number of Mt Kenya leaders are reportedly leaving the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, signaling a potential shift in regional political alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.

• Gatundu South MP Gabriel Kagombe is the latest to depart, citing growing hostility towards UDA and President William Ruto in the region.
• Notable figures like Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha have already moved to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
• This exodus is seen as a response to perceived diminishing interests of the Mt Kenya region within the national government and a desire for political survival, with DCP emerging as a potentially strong alternative.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is conducting a two-day political tour of Nakuru County to bolster his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) and gauge its national appeal.

• The tour began on Friday, August 14, starting in Naivasha.
• Key figures involved include Rigathi Gachagua and DCP leaders.
• The visit aims to test the party's strength in a diverse county and build a coalition to challenge President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections.

As the 2027 General Election approaches, a third centre of power has emerged in the Mt Kenya region, associated with President William Ruto, to counter the growing influence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

• The emergence of Ndia MP George Kariuki's home in Gacharu as a political hub signals a strategic move to consolidate support for President Ruto.
• This new centre aims to secure votes for President Ruto by potentially grooming Mr. Kariuki as a running mate, challenging the influence of Mr. Gachagua and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
• Amidst efforts to divide the Mt Kenya vote, a push for Mt Kenya East autonomy led by Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku also seeks to secure over 3 million votes for the Kenya Kwanza administration.