President William Ruto has dismissed efforts by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to undermine his political standing in the Mt Kenya region, saying such attempts are futile and bound to fail.

Ruto said he enjoys a strong political and personal relationship with Mt Kenya residents, insisting the bond cannot be shaken by what he described as petty politics, misinformation and political noise.

“The friendship we have built has a firm foundation. Some people think they can bring petty politics and noise to destroy what we built together. That is not possible,” Ruto said.

He spoke on Sunday during a church service at ACK St Paul’s Church in Kariki, Othaya, Nyeri County—Gachagua’s home area.

The visit marked the President’s first trip to Nyeri in several months, coming amid heightened political tensions following sustained criticism from Gachagua, who has vowed to mobilise Mt Kenya voters against Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

Ruto reminded congregants that the region overwhelmingly supported him in the 2022 General Election, maintaining that the partnership formed during that period remains intact.

“That will not change. Those trying to divide us should look for something else to do. We will continue walking together,” he said.

The President defended his administration’s development record, saying it is anchored on commitments made to the people of Mt Kenya. He cited investments in education, agriculture, business, roads, electricity and other infrastructure as proof of delivery.

“The government I lead has an agreement with you. You asked us to fix education, agriculture, business, roads and electricity—and that is exactly what we are doing,” Ruto said.

He also challenged his critics, including Gachagua, to face him at the ballot box, arguing that leadership should be judged on performance rather than rhetoric.

“There will be an examination in 2027. Everyone will be assessed based on the work they have done,” he said. “Those who thrive on insults, falsehoods and drama, we will meet them at the ballot.”

The President was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, and several Members of Parliament.

The visit was widely viewed as a show of political strength aimed at countering claims that Ruto’s support in Mt Kenya is declining.

Also present were Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami, Murang’a Woman Representative Betty Maina, Othaya MP Michael Wainaina, Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge, Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, Maragua MP Mary Wamaua, Lari MP Joseph Kahangara, Ruiru MP Simon King’ara, and nominated MP Sabina Chege.