Some politicians in Mount Kenya East are pushing to separate from the West to direct votes toward President William Ruto in the 2027 election. This could lead to the region's first split since 1992. Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku and UDA Chair Cecily Mbarire are leading this effort.
Since the multi-party system began in 1992, the entire Mount Kenya region has voted as one, but political rifts now threaten this tradition. Mount Kenya East comprises Embu, Meru, and Tharaka-Nithi counties, while the West includes Kirinyaga, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Kiambu, Laikipia, and Nakuru. In the 1992 election, the late Mwai Kibaki and Kenneth Matiba split the region's votes, with Matiba securing the majority.
For decades, the West's political direction has guided the East, but this may change. Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku from Embu and UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire support Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as Ruto's running mate in 2027. Ruku stated, “Mount Kenya East must stand on its own and protect its economic and political interests. We will divide the mountain if necessary, and Mount Kenya East will stand alone.” He claims East residents have suffered from being overshadowed by the West, and the Kenya Kwanza administration has opened development opportunities, such as rising tea and coffee prices.
Ruku has criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for divisive politics, arguing Kindiki offers East a chance for independence. Mbarire echoed this, saying, “We will not be dragged into politics that do not benefit our people. If necessary, we will decide our political future.” These politicians led the successful campaign for UDA's Leo Muthende in the recent North Mbeere by-election against Gachagua's opposition, including Justin Muturi and others.