Mt. Kenya is not anti-Ruto, says Woman Rep Jane Kagiri

Laikipia Woman Representative Jane Kagiri has rejected claims that the Mt. Kenya region is turning against President William Ruto as he begins his tour of the region.

Ruto is this week touring the vote-rich region, a highly anticipated tour that has intensified political tensions and fueled speculation about his support in the area.

Despite the Mt Kenya region's overwhelming support for Ruto in the 2022 election, there has been growing disillusionment with his leadership, especially following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

However, Kagiri, a strong Ruto supporter, has rejected the assertions.

In an interview on K24 TV on Monday, March 31, 2025, Kagiri argued that much of the discourse about Mt Kenya’s political dynamics after Gachagua’s impeachment is misleading.

“It’s important for us to be honest with each other about what’s being said about Mt Kenya. Initially, we were told it wouldn’t be possible for any leader elected from Mt Kenya to return to the ground," she said.

"But we did go back, we engaged our people. Then, it was said that the president couldn’t enter Mt Kenya, and now, our people are excited, waiting for the president’s visit. The day has finally come.”

Kagiri also contested the idea that Laikipia County is part of Mt Kenya, stating that it is only politically aligned with the region when it serves certain interests.

“But allow me to also correct that Laikipia is not in Mt Kenya. Laikipia is in Rift Valley if we all remember our geography. What happens, and I have refused my people to be misled when elections are near or when votes have counted and when anybody is under siege and believes they need votes, they rush and call Laikipia Mt Kenya,” she explained.

"The minute that is done we are thrown back to Rift Valley and told to go look for development there. And that is why even when you come to the equalization fund, Laikipia features as one of the beneficiaries of historical injustices.”

Kagiri also defended her choice to remain in Ruto’s government rather than follow Gachagua into the opposition, emphasizing that Laikipia would suffer without the support of the government.