As the cloud of smoke following the violent events of Saba Saba day settles in Mt Kenya, moderates in the region are calling for dialogue and restraint to avoid self-destruction.
Kiama Kia Ma council elders said although their policy is working with the government of the day, the prevailing situation calls for the opposing side to sit down and talk and find what the problems are, and the solutions for the youth.
Elder Clement Kimani told the Star that peace is paramount, and political differences should not lead people to cause violence.
“Those in government and those opposing the administration need to sit down and talk,” Kimani said.
“And this is not just about [former DP] Rigathi Gachagua. There are many other people who are opposing the government that should also be listened to.”
He said what the people of Mt Kenya are voicing are issues cutting across the country and not just a particular tribe.
“The unemployment issue is a national problem. The cost of living is affecting all,” he said.
“The young people are not going out as Kikuyus or Luhyas but as Kenyans with certain grievances. And when there is no peace, we are all affected.”
He, however, warned against a dialogue with premeditated political outcomes or settlement, arguing that Kenyans would not have trust in such a process.
Njuri Ncheke have also called for peace and dialogue with the youth, even as they condemned the violence that was witnessed during the demos.
Speaking at their cultural headquarters in Nchiru, Tigania West, the elders condemned criminals who took advantage of the demonstrations to cause destruction and chaos.
They termed them lawbreakers who must be held to account.
Chairman Adriano Ajuraju asked the youth to demonstrate in peace and work in coordination with the police so their protests are not infiltrated by goons.
Mt Kenya region was the most affected in the recent demonstrations, with businesses looted and torched.
Gachagua claimed the region is being targeted by the Ruto administration, adding that gangs were organised to sabotage the region economically.
On the other hand, the government has accused Gachagua and his allies of organising and sponsoring the violence, claims he has termed false.
Amid the war of words, the Star has also learnt that some political moderates, who are not aligned to either Gachagua’s side or the UDA government, are forming political parties as they strategise for 2027 survival.
For instance, three key politicians from Mt Kenya East are said to have already acquired a party for 2027.
One of the politicians recently appeared to launch a veiled attack on the government.
Among the reasons cited is the unpopularity of UDA in the region and fears of preferred candidates in Gachagua’s camp.
A UDA elected governor in the region is also said to be plotting a return to Jubilee Party as one of his rivals is already in government, while another appears assured of a DCP ticket.
Political commentator Weston Wanjohi said leaders in the region will have to understand the people’s needs if they are to survive politically.
“The political environment in Mt Kenya is shaped by a symbiotic relationship between the electorate and their leaders, one that prioritises responsiveness, inclusivity and the delivery of tangible outcomes,” Wanjohi said.
“Success in this region is not defined by legacy alone or by one’s position in political structures, but by a leader’s ability to engage authentically with the people’s evolving needs and concerns.”
He said the leaders who achieve lasting support are the ones who understand that true power of governance lies in serving the aspirations of the people, and not in dictating to them.
“As political scholar Juan Linz argues, ‘A democracy is successful when the leader is able to translate the voice of the people into meaningful action,’” Wanjohi said.
“In Mt Kenya, the most successful leaders will continue to be those who listen, understand and respond effectively to the calls of the people.”
