Political tensions in Nakuru County have escalated as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua publicly warned Governor Susan Kihika and her husband that the county is not their private property. The dispute comes amid rising competition for influence in Nakuru, a key region in Kenya’s political landscape. Gachagua’s remarks followed posts suggesting that he should avoid Nakuru, prompting him to assert his right to enter the county freely and participate in political activities.
Gachagua’s warning reflects a broader struggle over control and authority in Nakuru. As a cosmopolitan county, Nakuru has become a battleground for national and local politicians seeking to mobilize supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections. Kihika has previously criticized what she considers divisive politics in the region, warning leaders against using ethnic narratives to sway voters. This, however, has triggered pushback from Gachagua and his allies, who feel that their political participation is being restricted.
The dispute highlights the tension between county leadership and national political figures. While governors have constitutional authority over local governance and development, politicians with national ambitions often seek to influence these regions to consolidate electoral support. The public spat between Gachagua and Kihika illustrates the delicate balance between respecting county leadership and maintaining political freedom for national figures.
Online reactions to the clash have been intense, with social media platforms filled with debates and speculation. Supporters of both leaders have used the disagreement to rally their bases, while neutral observers view it as a reflection of the increasingly personalized and competitive nature of Kenyan politics. Incidents like this also underscore the challenge of ensuring civil political discourse in a climate dominated by social media commentary and partisan narratives.
Ultimately, the confrontation between Gachagua and Kihika over Nakuru County is more than a personal feud. It serves as a microcosm of the political dynamics shaping Kenya ahead of the 2027 elections, demonstrating how local governance, national ambitions, and social media interactions intersect to influence public perception and voter behavior.
