A political drama unfolded in Murang’a County on Friday, September 12, 2025, when Members of County Assembly (MCAs) declined an invitation from President William Ruto to attend a meeting at State House. The MCAs claimed that each of them had been promised KSh 300,000 to attend — a gesture they branded as a bribe. Instead, they opted to visit former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+2Kenyans+2
The Alleged Bribe and the Response
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What was promised: Kariara Ward MCA Gichobe Mbati said that Ruto’s administration offered MCAs KSh 300,000 to attend the State House event, supposedly as compensation or incentive. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+2Kenyans+2
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Why it was rejected: The MCAs argued that the money meant for public services (e.g. healthcare, education) should not be diverted into what they view as political inducements. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
Political Implications
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Alignment with Gachagua: The MCAs declared their loyalty to Rigathi Gachagua, calling him their party leader and future president. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
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Opposition stance: They framed the declining of the invite as a matter of principle, rejecting what they see as manipulative tactics. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+1
Ruto’s Development Package vs Political Tensions
While tensions rose over accusations of bribery, President Ruto used the same meeting invitation to announce development plans for Murang’a:
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Affordable housing (≈ 10,300 units), roads upgrade, modern markets, new student hostels, electrification projects, and water supply projects. Tuko.co.ke – Kenya news.+2Kenyans+2
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However, some local leaders criticized past unfulfilled promises and expressed distrust. People Daily
What This Means for Murang’a and 2027
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Trust in leadership: The episode may influence voters’ perception of integrity in political leadership.
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Opposition momentum: This is likely to strengthen Gachagua’s profile and that of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) in Mt Kenya region.
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Pre-election signaling: Moves like this serve as early signals ahead of 2027 elections.
