Kirinyaga Erupts in Protest After Gachagua’s Alleged Attack on Governor Waiguru

Kirinyaga Erupts in Protest After Gachagua’s Alleged Attack on Governor Waiguru

Kirinyaga County witnessed fiery protests on Monday, October 13, as hundreds of residents—mostly women—stormed the streets in defense of Governor Anne Waiguru. The demonstrations followed controversial remarks made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during a church service in Mwea.

“When He Insults Waiguru, He Insults Us”

Angry protesters lit bonfires along the busy Kutus-Samson Road, causing traffic disruptions and drawing the attention of local authorities. Many carried placards with messages like “Respect Women Leaders” and “The Choice is Ours.”

“He should know the governor did not place herself in office. We voted her in,” one protester shouted.

“So when he insults the governor, he is also insulting us.”

Another protester accused Gachagua of being misled by political opportunists.

“Those people inciting you so that you insult Waiguru only want her seat,” she said. “They should know we are the ones responsible for voting in the next governor.”

“We Will Name and Shame the Traitors”

During Sunday’s church service at Ambassador of Christ Church, Gachagua launched a scathing attack on Waiguru. He vowed to expose Mount Kenya leaders allegedly working with the Kenya Kwanza government to scatter opposition votes.

“Let us agree on what I will do,” Gachagua declared.

“Wherever I go in Mount Kenya, I will be calling out the traitors by name so that people know them. Whether you are a man or a woman.”

He accused Waiguru of planning to form a political party ahead of the 2027 elections. According to reports, Waiguru may switch to a senatorial bid since she cannot serve a third term as governor.

“Rice Farmers Are Suffering”

Gachagua also blamed Kirinyaga leaders for the plight of rice farmers in Mwea. He claimed their silence had allowed the government to prioritize rice imports over local production.

“Their silence is the reason why the government is importing rice at the expense of our farmers,” he said.

This statement further fueled anger among residents, many of whom rely on rice farming for their livelihoods.

“Mount Kenya Is Pushing Back”

Over the weekend, Gachagua’s allies faced hostility in the region. Mbeere South MP Nebart Muriuki was forced to flee after a crowd charged at him during a stop at Kiritiri market.

The protests in Kirinyaga reflect growing resistance to political intimidation and a demand for respect toward elected leaders.

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Kirinyaga Erupts in Protest After Gachagua’s Alleged Attack on Governor Waiguru