Gachagua clashes with Kindiki over by-election timing

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised Deputy President Kithure Kindiki over early political remarks surrounding the upcoming Ol Kalou by-election, urging leaders to respect cultural traditions during the mourning period of the late MP David Njunguna Kiaraho.

Speaking in Nyandarua County on Tuesday during a visit to the late legislator’s family, Gachagua said it was inappropriate to engage in political succession discussions before burial rites are completed. He emphasised that within the Kikuyu community, it is considered disrespectful to discuss replacing a leader before they are laid to rest.

Gachagua called on leaders, particularly from the Mt Kenya region, to uphold cultural values and allow families and constituents time to grieve without political interference.

“We cannot talk about by-elections when Kiaraho has not been buried. As a community, we do not discuss inheritance before burial. Let us first accord the late MP dignity,” he said.

In a sharp attack, Gachagua accused Kindiki of disregarding these traditions and engaging in premature political rhetoric. He urged the Deputy President to exercise restraint and “hold his horses” until after the burial.

Gachagua further linked Kindiki’s approach to what he described as emerging political habits, warning that such conduct risks eroding long-held cultural norms in the region.

The remarks come shortly after Kindiki signalled readiness for a political contest in the Ol Kalou constituency, expressing confidence in his camp’s ability to secure victory in the anticipated by-election. The Deputy President indicated that the mini-poll would serve as a battleground to settle political scores and assert influence.

“We will meet there and deal with the matter decisively,” Kindiki said in reference to the by-election.

The Ol Kalou parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of Kiaraho on March 29, 2026, triggering preparations for a by-election that is already attracting national political attention.

Leaders across the political divide have begun positioning themselves ahead of the contest, seen as a key indicator of influence in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The exchange between Gachagua and Kindiki underscores growing political rivalry in the region, with competing factions seeking to consolidate support in one of the country’s most significant voting blocs.

While Gachagua insists on prioritising cultural respect and mourning, Kindiki’s remarks point to an early start to political mobilisation, setting the stage for a highly contested and closely watched by-election in Nyandarua.