Kagwe Tells Mt Kenya to Build Leaders, Not Tear Them Down

By Brian Kiprono - Reporter

Kenya , January 11, 2026 - Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has urged the Mt Kenya region to abandon divisive and emotional politics, warning that repeatedly undermining its own leaders weakens the region’s influence and development prospects.

Speaking during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday, Kagwe said sustainable progress can only be achieved by nurturing leaders over time rather than discarding them at every political cycle. “We are not a people who jump with emotions every time and spend all our energy criticising. That is not leadership,” Kagwe said.

He argued that regions which have made significant political and economic gains did so by investing in leaders, allowing them to grow in experience, influence and networks that ultimately benefit their communities. “Development comes when you allow good leaders to serve, to grow, and to complete what they started,” he said, adding: “Leadership is grown, not rented for one term. You cannot uproot your crops every five years and expect a harvest.”

Kagwe cautioned Mt Kenya against politics driven by anger or short-term interests, saying such approaches risk isolating the region from national power and decision-making. Instead, he called for strategic thinking that prioritises long-term stability and influence within government.

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He also praised President William Ruto for what he described as political maturity, citing his own appointment as Agriculture CS despite having opposed Ruto in the previous election. “That is leadership with wisdom,” Kagwe said. “It shows this government is about building a nation, not settling political scores.”

The CS urged religious leaders to pray for the country’s leadership and electorate, saying Kenya needs leaders and voters who make choices guided by the future rather than past grievances. Reaffirming his position within government, Kagwe said he is fully aligned with President Ruto’s agenda and committed to supporting the administration beyond the next general election.

“This is about continuity, stability and building systems that last,” he said. “That is how Mt Kenya and Kenya as a whole will prosper.” The church service was attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Senator Wahome Wamatinga, Woman Representative Rahab Mukami, and Members of Parliament from Othaya, Mathira and Nyeri Town, among other leaders.