With about three years to 2022 polls, tension is mounting among Mt Kenya leaders over the impending exit of President Uhuru Kenyatta, a move that would create a void in regional politics.
A section of leaders now wants the region to hold a conference in the historical Limuru town, to pick a person who should take over from Uhuru as the region's kingpin, a strategy that would increase their bargaining power.
The town has been historically used when making major declarations. The last came in 2012 when Uhuru was pronounced the de facto kingpin in the region.
Last week, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri set the pace when he asked the leaders to meet.
“We cannot be naive and go to the elections as a divided community. Such a meeting should be held in 2021. For now, let us support the President’s Big Four Agenda,” Kiunjuri was quoted by the Nation.
Similar sentiments were shared by Laikipia Senator John Kinyua, who said the meeting in Limuru is necessary to help curb possible divisions ahead of 2022 elections.
“We may be supporting the Deputy President in his 2022 bid but we need to have our own minimum expectations. Mt Kenya has 10 counties and a solid block of votes. If we are divided, we will be crucified separately and that is why I call for such a meeting. The earlier the better,” Kinyua said
However, nominated MP Maina Kamanda, a staunch critic of Deputy President William Ruto, has warned against the meeting. Instead, Kamanda wants the leaders to support President Uhuru Kenyatta to complete his term.
“There should be no rush to hold the meeting. Let it come a few months to the election,” Kamanda was also quoted by Nation.
The Mt Kenya region has produced three presidents; Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta.