This archive report was first published on 23 June 2021.
June 23, 2021, marked a significant day in Kenya's politics as Kiambu Woman Representative Gathoni Wamuchomba announced her switch from the Kieleweke faction of the Jubilee Party to Deputy President William Ruto's 'hustlers' nation.'
Wamuchomba, a staunch supporter of President Kenyatta and a key crusader of the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), made the announcement after meeting with DP Ruto at his official Karen residence in Nairobi.
The move comes after Wamuchomba took a sabbatical leave from active politics following the defeat of Jubilee candidate in the Juja Parliamentary by-election, which was won by Dr Ruto-linked George Koimburi of People's Empowerment Party.
Wamuchomba stated that it was clear that the second in command had wrestled the Mt Kenya vote from the President, adding that sticking to the Head of State's camp was akin to committing political suicide.
Her decision to switch camps is seen as a significant blow to President Kenyatta's Mt Kenya coalition, which has been facing challenges in recent times.
Wamuchomba's move is also seen as a clear indication that most politicians who support President Kenyatta from Mt Kenya are just bidding their time before moving to DP Ruto's camp.
