Politics
Ichung’wah Faces Mt. Kenya Backlash Over Gachagua Impeachment Support
Andrew Kimani Ichung’wah, a polarising but influential figure in the administration of President William Ruto.
Ichung’wah’s support for Gachagua impeachment stirs Mt. Kenya tensions
By Charles Wachira
Andrew Kimani Ichung’wah, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kikuyu, has long been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, particularly as a close ally of President William Ruto.
However, his recent actions have put him on a collision course with his Mt. Kenya political base.
Ichung’wah’s role in spearheading the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—a political powerhouse within the Mt. Kenya region—has sparked a wave of discontent among local leaders and voters alike.
While Ichung’wah’s loyalty to President Ruto has helped him rise to the position of Majority Leader in the National Assembly, his alignment with the push to oust Gachagua is seen by many as a betrayal of Mt. Kenya interests.
Gachagua, who is widely regarded as the region’s political kingpin, has strong grassroots support. Any threat to his position is perceived as an affront to the region’s unity and leadership in national politics.
Ichung’wah’s political base is now divided, with many questioning whether he is prioritizing national alliances over local needs.
His close ties to the Ruto administration, once seen as an asset, are now viewed with suspicion, particularly as Mt.
Kenya leaders rally around Gachagua. Local sentiments suggest that Ichung’wah may be losing touch with the region’s political dynamics, risking alienation from the very constituency that propelled him to power.
Despite the growing discontent, Ichung’wah’s family’s deep entrenchment in the government remains a testament to his influence.
His sister-in-law serves as Kenya’s envoy to South Africa, while his brother-in-law holds the position of Principal Secretary for Roads.
However, this political capital may not be enough to shield him from the backlash brewing in his Mt. Kenya stronghold.
As Mt. Kenya leaders push back against the impeachment efforts, Ichung’wah’s future in the region’s political landscape hangs in the balance. Whether he can regain the trust of his constituents or face further isolation remains to be seen, but his political journey is at a critical crossroads.