Murang'a Woman Representative Betty Maina has accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of plotting a fake assassination attempt on himself. Maina claims this desperate move comes after Gachagua's alleged failure to rally the region against President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a public rally in Murang'a County over the weekend, Maina alleged that Gachagua, who was impeached in October 2024, is resorting to theatrical tactics to regain sympathy and political relevance.
"After failing to divide our people against the President, who has delivered on infrastructure and unity, Gachagua is now planning a staged assassination to paint himself as a victim," Maina stated.
She urged security agencies to investigate what she described as a "dangerous ploy that could incite unrest."
This accusation comes amid heightened tensions in Mount Kenya politics, where factions loyal to Ruto and those aligned with Gachagua are locked in a battle for influence.
Recent developments show deepening fault lines, with leaders like Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri publicly challenging Gachagua's regional dominance.
Gachagua, who has been vocal in criticizing Ruto's administration since his ouster, has positioned himself as a defender of Mount Kenya interests.
He recently hinted at a potential alliance with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, a move analysts say could consolidate opposition against Ruto but risks backfiring by alienating moderate voters.
In recent statements, Gachagua fired back at Ruto over remarks on the Azimio coalition, claiming ODM's influence has waned across the country.
The feud has spilled into allegations of violence. Gachagua's camp has previously accused Maina and her allies of orchestrating attacks, including claims that her bodyguards commanded police to shoot at his team during confrontations.
In one instance, Gachagua alleged video evidence of Ruto and Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen planning an assassination attempt on opposition figures in Othaya.
Maina's latest claim flips the narrative, suggesting Gachagua is fabricating threats to undermine Ruto's support.