Mt Kenya leaders allied to President Uhuru Kenyatta endorsed Agriculture CS Peter Munya as the President's successor in 2022.
Munya who convened the meeting was chosen over National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi who skipped the event despite being invited.
Speaking at the Kenya Methodist University (KEMU) grounds in Meru County, on Saturday, July 24, the leaders lauded Munya for his leadership qualities, terming him a charismatic and able politician who can rally the area to unite.
They added that the CS had further demonstrated that he can lead the region once Uhuru retires and was poised to be crowned Mt Kenya kingpin.
"We will not bow to any attempt to divide us. There are a few who have been sent to divide us into east and west.
"When they held top positions in the government, there was no east and west. When we fought for independence, we were one people. Our unity is critical for the next election," Munya, who declared himself de facto Mt Kenya spokesperson stated.
He further downplayed Deputy President William Ruto's bottom-up approach, arguing that Uhuru was a step ahead through launching projects that would spur the economy.
In attendance at the meeting were Governors Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga), Lee Kinyanjui (Nakuru) and James Nyoro (Kiambu), Deputy Nairobi Governor Anne Kananu, Murang'a Woman Rep Sabina Chege, former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo and Kieni MP Kanini Kega.
The leaders urged Muturi, who was crowned by elders in May 2021, to join the group and rally behind CS Munya.
Muturi, in an interview with the Standard, argued that he would unveil his strategy when the right time comes, hinting at running for the Presidency on a different party other than Jubilee.
"The situation is now shaky because Jubilee failed to take the opportunity of turning itself into a powerful party with presence across the country.
"I know how to network and could have had Jubilee party leaders work with county leaders in all the 47 counties. It's my nature (to appear soft) because I will not make sense when I shout at the top of my voice," Muturi defended his approach, adding that he regretted failing to unite Jubilee.
