The defections follow repeated warnings by Gachagua, who has urged Mt Kenya leaders to publicly declare their political allegiance or risk facing voters’ wrath in the 2027 General Election.
He has accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of sidelining the vote-rich region in government appointments, development priorities, and key decision-making.
Among the most high-profile leaders who have shifted to Gachagua’s camp are several senators.
They include Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kiambu’s Karungo Thang’wa, Kirinyaga Senator James Murango, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Laikipia Senator John Kinyua.
The senators have largely echoed Gachagua’s claims that the Mt Kenya electorate feels betrayed by President Ruto’s administration.
The list of defectors has continued to grow at the National Assembly level.
MPs who have openly aligned themselves with the DCP include Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, Embakasi North’s James Gakuya, Embakasi Central MP Mejjadonk, Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia, and Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, among others.
Their shift has highlighted widening cracks within UDA’s Mt Kenya support base, particularly among lawmakers who claim they have faced intimidation, removal from parliamentary committees, or stalled development projects after expressing dissent against the government.
Despite the defections, a significant number of Mt Kenya leaders especially first-term governors and MPs with national ambitions have opted for a cautious approach, choosing not to publicly declare their loyalty.
Analysts say many are weighing political survival against alignment with either Ruto or Gachagua as the 2027 race draws closer.
Since his impeachment in October 2024, Gachagua has positioned himself as the political voice of Mt Kenya, using the DCP as a platform to consolidate regional support.
With more leaders expected to declare their stance in the coming months, Mt Kenya’s political landscape is set for further upheaval.
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