'Presidency must be respected': Governor Kahiga explains presence in Ruto's Nyeri tour

This followed photos shared online of governor Kahiga warmly receiving President Ruto's entourage at the county and exchanging cordial conversations. 

This surprised many as Kahiga, known for his vocal nature against the government, is allied to Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President who has been rallying his troops to oppose his former boss. 

Taking to his Facebook account on Wednesday, the governor noted that the public should not read too much into the situation. 

He also told his critics to differentiate political matters, citing 'the presidency must be respected.'

Further, he defiantly revealed that he would still welcome the president in Nyeri town and Othaya Constituency on Saturday, much to the chagrin of his detractors. 

"I have noted frenzied interest in my attendance of the President's functions in Kieni.Do not read too much into this photo and others shared all over. The Presidency must be respected," he said. 

"The Governor of Nyeri received The President of The Republic of Kenya in Nyeri, Kieni Constituency. The Governor of Nyeri will still receive The President of The Republic of Kenya on Saturday in both Nyeri Town and Othaya Constituencies on Saturday. Ni lazima kutofautishana mambo!"

The president is expected to cover nine counties in his weeklong tour. These include Laikipia, Nyeri, Nyandarua, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Embu, Tharaka Nithi and Kiambu.