Mithika Linturi Announces Next Move After Leading Meru Leaders to Gachagua’s Doorstep
Days after accompanying Meru leaders to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Wamunyoro residence, former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has finally spoken out. On Saturday, April 26, he offered a heartfelt apology to the people of Mt. Kenya for previously encouraging them to support the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Expressing deep regret, Linturi explained that the government he had once supported had lost its way. “He has now become a dictator. He cannot be told, he cannot consult, and now he has just taken that position to sit on everyone,” Linturi stated, referring to President William Ruto.
During his address, Linturi did not mince his words. He accused President Ruto of becoming increasingly dictatorial and unwilling to accept advice or guidance from his allies. Linturi emphasized that Ruto had chosen to isolate himself, ignoring the voices that had propelled him into power.
The former Agriculture CS further criticized Ruto’s decision to form a political alliance with ODM leader Raila Odinga without proper consultations. “Without consultations, he decided that he could join hands with Tinga—the same Tinga that he vilified,” he added, using Raila Odinga’s popular nickname.
Linturi’s remarks echoed the frustrations of many within the Mt. Kenya region, who feel that their loyalty has been taken for granted.
When questioned about his political future, Linturi made it clear he could no longer stay silent. Feeling a sense of duty to those who look up to him, he announced his decision to join the opposition.
“So I said the time has come for me to join the other willing Kenyans who are willing to liberate this country from this administration because nothing appears to really be working,” he declared.
His move signals a significant shift, highlighting the growing cracks within the Kenya Kwanza alliance.
Linturi’s announcement came shortly after a notable meeting with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. On April 24, Gachagua revealed on social media that he had hosted delegations from Tharaka Nithi and Meru counties at his Wamunyoro home.
Among the guests were Linturi, former Igembe North MP Maoka Maore, and former Tigania West MP David Kariithi. Gachagua described the discussions as “productive and positive,” indicating that the leaders were focused on forming a new political party aimed at addressing the region’s grievances.
According to Gachagua, the visiting delegations voiced serious concerns about several issues affecting the nation. These included poor governance, widespread insecurity, the collapse of the healthcare and education systems, economic struggles, and increased cattle rustling.
The leaders emphasized the urgent need to restore the rule of law and create a more responsive government. Gachagua highlighted their shared commitment to leading the country towards a better future.
“We are firmly committed to leading Kenya onto a new path,” he assured.
Linturi’s bold move occurred against the backdrop of President Ruto’s recent overtures to former Agriculture CS Peter Munya and Linturi himself. The President had hinted at offering the two former officials positions within the government.
However, Peter Munya quickly declined Ruto’s offer. In a firm statement, Munya announced that he was not interested in any government appointment. Instead, he declared his intention to vie for the Meru governorship in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on the future of his party, Munya said, “The PNU party has not yet endorsed a presidential candidate. We are open to individuals who wish to express their interest.”
His rejection of Ruto’s olive branch sent a strong message about the shifting political landscape in Mt. Kenya.
The unfolding events suggest that Kenya Kwanza’s once solid support in Mt. Kenya is rapidly eroding. Discontent among the region’s leaders reflects a wider dissatisfaction with how the government is being run.
Linturi’s entry into the opposition, alongside growing calls for the formation of a new political party, hints at an approaching political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
It remains to be seen how President Ruto will respond to these growing defections and whether he can rebuild trust with the region that was crucial to his electoral success.
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Mithika Linturi Announces Next Move After Leading Meru Leaders to Gachagua’s Doorstep
