By by Maureen Maina
A growing number of young Kikuyu see the Ruto–Rigathi split not just as a personal fallout but as a betrayal of the Mt Kenya “block” that delivered a decisive margin in 2022. Many interpret Ruto’s moves—purging Rigathi’s allies, reshuffling Mt Kenya appointees, and cultivating new alliances within the region—as a signal that he prioritizes political consolidation over community unity. Meanwhile, Rigathi’s pushback—warning against Ruto’s alleged attempts to divide the Kikuyu, reviving tribal narratives, and forming his own DCP vehicle—is seen by Kikuyu youth as both a rallying call to defend their identity and a political play to regain leverage . The result? A palpable sense of disillusionment among younger Kikuyu, who fear their community is being used as a pawn in political games, eroding both regional solidarity and their trust in leadership.
