Mt. Kenya East 'not voting machines anymore,' MP Ruku says as region backs CS Kindiki

Speaking to Citizen TV on Thursday, Ruku highlighted the growing movement among Mt. Kenya East leaders who are rallying behind Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki as their key representative to the national executive.

The MP emphasized that Mt. Kenya East, after decades of feeling sidelined, is seeking autonomy from the broader Mt. Kenya political fold. 

"For over sixty years, our Kikuyu cousins have treated us as mere voting machines," he said. 

"Now, we are asserting our independence and will determine our own political and economic future."

Ruku expressed the frustration of his region, arguing that it has long been disenfranchised by being grouped under the larger Mt. Kenya umbrella, often to its detriment. 

He called for development projects that specifically benefit the region, such as extending the Mau Mau road through key areas like Embu, Mbeere, Tharaka, Imenti, Tigania, and Igembe. 

"We want respect and recognition for our region, and we refuse to continue bearing the burden of our cousins," he added.

Earlier in the week, leaders from Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties convened and voiced their support for Kindiki's leadership, affirming that he would serve as the official link between Mt. Kenya East and the national government.

 “We have unanimously agreed that Prof. Kithure Kindiki will be our representative to the executive,” the leaders said in a joint statement. 

They expressed confidence in his ability to effectively advocate for the region's development priorities.

The leaders also thanked President William Ruto for appointing key figures from Mt. Kenya East—Hon. Justin Muturi, Prof. Kindiki, and Eng. Eric Mugaa—as Cabinet Secretaries, stating that these appointments reflect the growing influence of the region in national affairs.

This meeting is seen as a pivotal moment for Mt. Kenya East, as the region seeks to address long-standing socio-economic and political grievances. 

The leaders committed to pushing for the completion of critical infrastructure projects, including roads, water supply, and electrification initiatives, which have stalled since the previous administration.