Tharaka Nithi Leaders Raise Concerns Over Ruto-Odinga Alliance, Fear Kindiki’s Marginalization
Tharaka Nithi County Administration executive Muthini Karangi during issuance of free certified seeds in Magumoni ward. Photo/Alex Njeru
By Alex Njeru
Tharaka Nithi leaders, led by Administration and Devolution Executive Muthini Karangi, have raised concerns that the recent political alliance between President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga could sideline Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki.
Speaking during the 10th edition of free certified seed distribution in Chuka/Igambang’ombe Constituency, Karangi expressed shock at the unfolding political dynamics.
He pointed out that during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, Odinga was given a more prominent role than Kindiki.
“It was shocking to see Mr. Odinga speak after DP Kindiki and even go on to welcome President Ruto. Even the podium on which DP Kindiki addressed the gathering lacked the official coat of arms, unlike that of Odinga and Ruto, clearly indicating that things are not right,” Karangi lamented.
He emphasized that while they are not opposed to Odinga joining the government and support national unity, Kindiki should not lose his rightful position in the leadership structure.
“We fought hard to form this government, and we cannot afford to lose it to people who never supported it,” he added.
Karangi warned that Mt. Kenya leaders and their supporters had already experienced marginalization during retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s last term when they shifted allegiance to Ruto.
Call for Unity and Development
Deputy Governor Nyaga Muisrael, who led the county-wide seed distribution, welcomed the broad-based government approach but called for unity among county leaders. He commended Mariani MCA Anita Mbae and Magumoni MCA Justin Kithinji for rallying behind Governor Muthomi Njuki’s administration to foster development.
“This is the time to fulfill the promises made to the people during campaigns, not to engage in divisive politics,” Muisrael said.
He lauded Governor Njuki’s leadership for focusing on service delivery rather than political wrangling.
MCAs Kithinji and Mbae echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that infighting among leaders would hinder development in the county.
Development and Infrastructure Concerns
Economic Advisor to Governor Njuki, Dr. Mutegi Kabisani, reassured residents that the county boss remains committed to development as he serves his final term.
Mugwe MCA Jacob Kiriko criticized politicians engaging in early campaigns instead of supporting county projects such as the free seed distribution program.
He also took issue with the National Assembly for allegedly holding back Ksh150 million from the Road Maintenance Levy Fund, which is meant to improve the county’s road network.
“We have Ksh150 million being withheld by the National Assembly, yet it should be used to improve our roads,” Kiriko lamented.
Thousands of farmers across Tharaka, Maara, and Chuka/Igambang’ombe constituencies have benefited from the free seed distribution program, receiving maize, beans, and green grams suited for the county’s varied ecological zones.
The initiative has significantly boosted food security, particularly in the lower semi-arid areas of Tharaka constituency.
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