Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua was rumored to be the most preferred running mate choice from Mt Kenya for the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
However, this will not come to fruition. The lawmaker will be defending his Mathira MP seat in August. Instead, Prof Kithure Kindiki, the Tharaka Nithi Senator is believed to have won the confidence of William Ruto and his top allies are proposing him as their running mate.
The Mt Kenya East factor is hugely at play.
According to reports, Prof Kindiki’s withdrawal from the Tharaka Nithi gubernatorial race last month was a strategic move due to the responsibilities ahead. He had previously indicated he will not defend his senatorial post.
Prof Kithure Kindiki is one of the most senior UDA leaders, having served as the Majority leader in the Senate during Jubilee Coalition’s first term (2013-2017) and as Deputy Speaker in the Senate (2018-2020).
