Linturi dismisses claims of Mt Kenya East political split

Democracy for the Citizens Party national organising secretary Mithika Linturi has criticised Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire over claims that Mt Kenya East is preparing to break away from the west and chart its own political path.

The former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary also took aim at elected leaders from the region, accusing them of remaining silent as Mt Kenya descends into what he described as political chaos.

Linturi questioned Ruku’s authority to speak on behalf of the region, accusing him of abandoning the electorate that voted him in.

“Ruku, you have no moral authority to speak for Mt Kenya East. You lack respect. You were elected by the people of Mbeere, served for only two years, then abandoned your seat to become a cabinet secretary. You were elected for just two years and now you want to lecture us,” Linturi said.

He further accused President William Ruto of betraying leaders from the region, including himself, former Attorney General Justin Muturi and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

“If William Ruto betrayed Linturi, betrayed Muturi and betrayed Gachagua, people who supported him financially and hosted him in their homes, what makes you think you are different?” He posed.

Linturi also took a swipe at Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, questioning her influence in the region.

“I am telling Cecily Mbarire, my good sister, even when you go to speak to her, you carry an interpreter,” he said.

The remarks come amid growing political realignments within the Mt Kenya region, with leaders divided over its future political direction.