Ruto Forced to Pause Speech as Murang’a Residents Sing Cautionary Songs for Gachagua
President William Ruto’s tour of the Mt. Kenya region took an unexpected turn in Makuyu when enthusiastic residents interrupted his speech with songs warning his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, and others opposing his leadership. The incident, which unfolded on April 3, highlighted the shifting political dynamics in the region and reaffirmed Ruto’s hold on the central vote bloc.
Makuyu Residents Serenade Ruto with Warning Chants
Ruto, who received a warm welcome in Makuyu, was engaging the crowd when locals broke into a Kikuyu song cautioning Gachagua and others against undermining the president. The chants, which declared that “Ruto is not a swing to swing with,” signaled unwavering support for the head of state and a stern warning to those challenging his authority.
Visibly amused, Ruto paused his speech, watching the residents in awe, smiling as they sang passionately. The moment underscored the deep-rooted political undercurrents within the Kenya Kwanza government and the brewing tensions between Ruto and his deputy.
Ruto’s Development Promises for Makuyu
During his visit, Ruto announced major development projects for the Makuyu region, emphasizing his commitment to fulfilling campaign pledges. Among the key projects he unveiled were:
- KSh 40 Million for Makuyu Hospital Expansion: The president approved funding for the expansion of Makuyu Hospital, a move expected to improve healthcare access in the region.
- KSh 30 Million for a New KMTC Campus: Ruto promised to release additional funds to establish a Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) branch in Makuyu, instructing that construction should commence immediately.
- 16 Modern Markets Across Murang’a County: In a bid to support small-scale traders, the president pledged to build modern markets, ensuring a conducive working environment for mama mbogas and other vendors.
Keeping Political Promises or Just Another Campaign?
While Ruto’s promises were met with enthusiasm, governance expert Alfred Makotsi warned that political goodwill must translate into tangible development. “Communities like Makuyu have long suffered from unfulfilled pledges. Transparent implementation timelines and proper public accountability mechanisms will be crucial,” Makotsi advised.
Ruto Dismisses Claims of Waning Popularity in Mt. Kenya
Despite murmurs of growing tensions between him and Gachagua, Ruto reassured residents that his support in the Mt. Kenya region remains strong. Dismissing speculation about a possible fallout, he insisted that his absence from the region had been due to national priorities, not dwindling influence.
“Aren’t you the ones who made me president? In 2027, there will be an exam, and everyone will come here to take it. Do you think I will just sit back and wait to fail?” Ruto posed to the crowd, hinting at his re-election strategy.
Political Winds Shifting in Mt. Kenya?
Ruto’s tour and the unexpected musical interlude reflect the evolving political dynamics in central Kenya. With Gachagua’s influence under scrutiny and Ruto’s grip on the region being tested, all eyes are on how the political chess game will unfold ahead of 2027.
One thing is clear—Makuyu residents made their stance known, and their voices are shaping the political narrative in real-time.
In other news: Inside Ruto’s Iron Grip: How the President Holds His Cabinet Hostage
Ruto Forced to Pause Speech as Murang’a Residents Sing Cautionary Songs for Gachagua