Political analyst Prof Peter Kagwanja has weighed in on the impact the arrest of Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu will have on Deputy President William Ruto's influence in the Mount Kenya region.
Waititu is a leading political figure in the pro-Ruto 'Tanga Tanga' group and has repeatedly assured the DP of the region's support in the 2022 general election.
However, according to Kagwanja, the arrest and prosecution of the abrasive politician mean Ruto's influence in the populous region has been highly dented.
"The arrest of Kiambu Governor, Ferdinand Waititu signals the momentous collapse of the HUSTLER NATION in Mt Kenya," the Chief Executive of the Africa Policy Institute tweeted on Wednesday.
Waititu's arrest came barely two months after he reported to Ruto that Mt Kenya leaders who were supporting him were under 'too much pressure' to dump him.
“There is pressure Mr Deputy President on those of us supporting you. Much pressure is being put on us and that is even why you saw our security being withdrawn, it is difficult,” he during a church service that was attended by Ruto in Kahawa Wendani, Ruiru constituency.
He made the remarks in the wake of withdrawal of security by Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i.
Others from the region who were affected included MPs; Kimani Ichung'wa (Kikuyu), Ndindi Nyoro (Kiharu), Alice Wahome (Kandara) and Mary Wamaua (Maragua).
Ruto has been making inroads in Mt Kenya region, which is President Uhuru Kenyatta's backyard, despite intense resistance from Kieleweke group which rally behind the handshake.
Uhuru has repeatedly warned politicians from the region to stop early campaigns and focus on fulfilling their campaign pledges.