Former Kieni Member of Parliament Kanini Kega has voiced strong endorsement for the United Opposition coalition following a series of high-energy political rallies in Nyeri and Nyandarua counties.
Kega, who recently defected from the Jubilee Party to join Rigathi Gachagua's Democratic Congress Party (DCP), described the events as a clear indicator of mounting public dissatisfaction with the current administration.
The rallies, part of the United Opposition's push to consolidate support in the Mount Kenya region ahead of the 2027 elections, drew massive crowds and featured prominent leaders including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Narc Kenya's Martha Karua.
A notable gathering in Maai Mahiu, which borders Nyandarua, highlighted calls for national unity, improved governance, and resistance against alleged government overreach.
In Nyandarua, speakers emphasized the need for trustworthy leadership that restores citizens' dignity and national pride, with references to protecting local interests amid economic challenges.
Kega's reaction comes amid his political realignment. In a charged rally in Kieni, Nyeri County, he addressed past tensions directly.
During the 2022 campaigns, Gachagua had publicly criticized Kega, labeling him a "serial bootlicker" and campaigning against him in favor of the current MP, Wainaina Njoroge.
However, Gachagua has since apologized to the people of Kieni, admitting it was a mistake to decampaign Kega and expressing regret for supporting Njoroge instead.
Kega, now welcomed into DCP by Gachagua, used the platform to rally support for the opposition, urging unity in the region.
"Leadership is not an inheritance," Kega reportedly echoed sentiments from local supporters, pushing back against Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga's attempts to position his deputy for the gubernatorial seat.
Speculation is rife that Kega himself may vie for the Nyeri governorship under the DCP banner, though some sources suggest he might target the Kieni MP seat again.
Supporters in Nyeri have been vocal, insisting that the next governor must align with DCP to represent their interests effectively.
The rallies have not been without controversy. The United Opposition has accused top government officials, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kip Chumba Morman and Principal Secretary Raymond Omolo, of orchestrating disruptions through hired goons.
Similar incidents were reported at other opposition events, such as at Gusii Stadium, where police allegedly showed laxity in responding to violence.
In response to Kahiga's statements criticizing the opposition, the coalition, through figures like Hon. Justin Muturi, outright rejected his apology, viewing it as insincere.
