In a strongly worded statement shared on social media, Kuria dared Gachagua to step into what he described as his political stronghold, just hours before the former Deputy President was scheduled to attend a church service and community event in the area.
“I dare you to step foot in my home ground if you are a man,” Kuria declared, a statement that immediately drew widespread attention and debate online.
The challenge came ahead of Gachagua’s planned appearance on Sunday, January 4, 2026, where he was expected to attend a service at AIPCA Kiratina Church before proceeding to the Komothai Super Cup at PCEA Kagema Primary School in Kibichoi.
The two leaders have been locked in an increasingly bitter rivalry as the 2027 General Election approaches, with both seeking to assert influence over the Mt Kenya voting bloc.
On Saturday, January 3, Kuria escalated the confrontation further by accusing Gachagua of orchestrating violence and political intimidation.
“Rigathi Gachagua is a coward, a despot, and a dangerous man. From today, prepare for a political battle. You crossed the red line,” Kuria said, referencing the alleged assault on Lamu Woman Representative Muthoni Marubu.
Kuria also accused Gachagua of playing a role in his political downfall within government, claiming the former Deputy President orchestrated his removal from the Cabinet and his reassignment from the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry.
Kuria later resigned from his role as a State House Senior Advisor on Economic Affairs in July 2025, a move that marked his final exit from the Kenya Kwanza administration.
He has since positioned himself as an outspoken critic of Gachagua, accusing him of undermining unity within the Mt Kenya region.
In response to Kuria’s claims, Gachagua has previously dismissed him as a “project of the presidency,” alleging that he is being used to divide the Mt Kenya region for political convenience.
The DCP leader has accused Kuria of advancing what he termed “state-sponsored politics” aimed at weakening regional unity ahead of the next election cycle.
Gachagua has also criticised Kuria’s leadership style, accusing him of promoting political confusion rather than offering meaningful solutions to the economic challenges facing residents of Mt Kenya.
Kuria has, however, turned the tables, accusing Gachagua of practising “backward and primitive politics” and promoting what he described as raw tribalism.
He claimed that Gachagua’s approach threatens to fracture the region and alienate younger voters who are increasingly focused on economic issues rather than ethnic mobilisation.
The ongoing standoff has largely played out through public rallies, media interviews, and heated exchanges on social media platforms, underscoring the deepening rift between the two once-allied leaders.
With Gachagua’s visit to Githunguri looming, political observers are closely watching to see whether the confrontation will escalate further or remain confined to verbal exchanges.
Security agencies are expected to remain on alert as both leaders continue to mobilise supporters across the region.