The Mike Makarina-Kindiki-Gachagua switch has Kenyan political circles buzzing this Tuesday. Long-time supporter and Meru businessman Mike Makarina reportedly turned his back on Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to throw his weight behind former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The claim exploded online with whispers that Makarina called Kindiki too weak to lead effectively.
Word of the shift started with a viral post on X accusing Makarina of abandoning his die-hard loyalty to Kindiki. The businessman built a reputation as one of the loudest voices defending the current administration, especially in Mount Kenya East.
He often took sharp shots at Gachagua during the impeachment drama and aftermath, praising Kindiki as the steady hand the region needed.
Makarina gained attention for bold statements and public appearances backing President William Ruto’s choices. He dismissed Gachagua’s criticism of government moves and predicted big wins for Kindiki allies in local races. Videos from late last year show him firing up crowds with promises that the deputy president would deliver development without drama.
This supposed change hits different because of Makarina’s profile. The billionaire mogul mixes business success with grassroots politics in Meru. His influence reaches traders, youth groups and church networks, where his word carries weight. Losing that voice could sting for Kindiki, who relies on solid backing in the vote-rich area ahead of future contests.
Gachagua has worked to rebuild his base since leaving the office. He holds frequent meetings and speaks out on cost of living issues, pulling crowds in central Kenya. Adding a high-profile name like Makarina would give his side a timely boost, especially if the businessman confirms the move publicly.
Kindiki keeps a lower public profile, focusing on security duties and official tours. His team has not responded yet to the circulating claims. Supporters online rushed to defend him, pointing to his calm approach as strength, not weakness, during turbulent times.
Makarina himself has stayed quiet so far on the matter. Past clips still circulate showing him tearing into Gachagua and hyping Kindiki as the future. That history makes the rumoured jump feel sudden to many watching from the sidelines.
Mount Kenya politics stays fluid heading into mid-term. Leaders often check who is loyal and who is open to new collaborations. People in business like Makarina often play the role of kingmaker by giving money to campaigns and getting people to vote. Where they land can change the votes of whole districts.
WhatsApp forwarding, group chats, and X threads helped the news spread. People made fun of weakness tests and unexpected handshakes in memes. Serious analysts also spoke out, saying that personal attacks like this just make old rivalries worse.
If the transfer is legitimate, it will be a big loss for Kindiki’s camp. Makarina supplied energy and resources that helped fight Gachagua’s story in places where they both had a lot of power. On the flip side, Gachagua gains a convert who knows the playbook inside out.
For now questions linger. Did Makarina truly call? Kindiki is weak and jumps ship. Or is this another round of online smoke without fire? Kenyans love political drama, and this one delivers plenty to chew on during tea breaks and evening news.
The businessman rose from health challenges to political prominence, sharing stories of faith and determination. His choices draw extra eyes because of that journey. Whatever comes next, his name stays in headlines.
This Mike Makarina-Kindiki-Gachagua twist reminds everyone how fast tides turn in Kenyan power games. Alliances form and break over quiet dinners or public stages. As the day rolls on, more clips and comments flood feeds. The supposed defection keeps tongues wagging from Meru markets to Nairobi cafes. Truth or rumour, the talk shows no sign of slowing soon.
