Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has dismissed claims that he is seeking to divide the Mt Kenya region, insisting that his remarks are aimed at highlighting historical and development inequalities between communities in the larger Mt Kenya bloc.
Speaking during an interview with local station on Monday, July 27, 2026, Ruku said the region is made up of diverse communities that have jointly contributed to Kenya’s political and liberation history, but argued that some areas, particularly in Mt Kenya East, have not received equitable recognition or development.
“I’m not splitting the Mountain. I’m just saying the truth as far as the Mt Kenya region is concerned,” Ruku said, adding that communities across the region fought together for Kenya’s independence and have consistently participated in successive governments from the administrations of Jomo Kenyatta, Daniel arap Moi, Mwai Kibaki, Uhuru Kenyatta and President William Ruto.
Also Read: Gachagua: Ruto honoured only Wetang’ula, Mudavadi’s personal deal, ignored Western Kenya
The Cabinet Secretary cited what he described as disparities in infrastructure development, claiming that counties in Mt Kenya West have historically received a larger share of road construction and electricity connectivity compared to counties in the eastern part of the region.
He argued that communities such as the Mbeere, Embu, Chuka, Tharaka and Meru have distinct cultures and identities, saying Kenya’s Constitution recognizes the country’s cultural diversity under Article 11.
“We should not be afraid or ashamed when we are talking about our culture. We are all Kenyans, but Mt Kenya has unique diversity,” he said.
Ruku also called for greater recognition of freedom fighters from eastern communities, saying historical accounts have largely focused on leaders from central Kenya.
Also Read: Murkomen: Govt to sustain support for women, youth and small businesses
The CS used the interview to launch a fresh attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of fostering political entitlement within the region.
“There is too much entitlement. He is politically arrogant,” Ruku said, arguing that Gachagua was portraying his personal political challenges as those of the entire Mt Kenya community.
Ruku defended the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying the region remains well represented in government through Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, heads of state corporations and the office of the Deputy President.
Also Read: Poo Ngetunyo Comedy actress Stacy Chepkoech awarded Ksh200K at KMFA Kids Got Talent
He further pointed to ongoing and planned infrastructure projects in Mt Kenya East, including the proposed Makutano-Mwea-Embu-Chuka-Nkubu-Meru-Isiolo dual carriageway, saying the projects demonstrate the government’s commitment to balancing development across the region.
His remarks come amid heightened political competition for influence in the vote-rich Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders increasingly debating issues of regional unity, representation and equitable distribution of national resources.
