
Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has stirred political debate after accusing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of inciting residents to invade a hotel in Mathira. According to Wambugu, the hotel reportedly belongs to the widow of Gachagua’s late brother.
Wambugu claimed that Gachagua had spread word that money from President Ruto would be shared at the hotel, urging locals to storm the premises and collect it. He described the move as reckless and potentially dangerous for the widow’s property.
In his statement, Wambugu criticized Gachagua’s leadership style, warning that it was irresponsible to use family disputes or community gatherings as tools for political maneuvering. He said such incitement could spark unnecessary conflicts within Mathira and beyond.
The former legislator added that the hotel in question was private property and should not be turned into a political battleground. He emphasized that dragging the widow into political wars was unfair and disrespectful to the late brother’s legacy.
This allegation quickly attracted attention online, with Kenyans expressing mixed reactions. Some accused Wambugu of politicizing family matters, while others felt Gachagua’s alleged actions were unacceptable and risked fueling divisions among already tense political supporters.
Critics argued that Wambugu constantly targets Gachagua in his remarks, suggesting a personal vendetta. Others defended him, insisting that leaders must speak out when powerful figures misuse their influence to push questionable agendas at the expense of ordinary citizens.
Supporters of Gachagua dismissed the claims as baseless, pointing out that no evidence was provided to show he actually incited anyone. They accused Wambugu of engaging in propaganda to remain politically relevant in Nyeri’s shifting political landscape.
However, a section of Kenyans agreed with Wambugu, questioning why senior leaders often involve themselves in disputes that could be handled privately. They stressed that such statements risk creating instability, especially when linked to sensitive family matters and property ownership.
The matter now adds to ongoing tensions within Mount Kenya politics, where divisions remain sharp despite President Ruto’s efforts to unite the region. Whether Gachagua will respond directly to Wambugu’s allegations remains to be seen in the coming days.