Uhuru's Loyalists Take to Mt. Kenya with "Empathy Tour" Amidst Public Ire

In a strategic move aimed at regaining ground in their home turf, allies of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who served in the 12th Parliament, gathered over 500 grassroots leaders yesterday. Following the closed-door meeting at Kiambu High School, they announced a tour across Mt. Kenya region under the banner of "showing empathy" towards Kenyans struggling with the high cost of living.

This initiative comes amidst rising discontent among Kenyans, particularly in Mt. Kenya, where Uhuru Kenyatta enjoyed significant support throughout his presidency. The region has witnessed growing resentment towards the current administration under President William Ruto, with many blaming him for the worsening economic situation.

Speaking on behalf of the group, former Cabinet Secretary and Jubilee Party Vice-Chairman David Murathe outlined the purpose of the tour: "We are deeply concerned about the plight of Kenyans, especially in Mt. Kenya, who are bearing the brunt of the high cost of living. We are embarking on this tour to listen to their concerns, share their pain, and offer any support we can."

However, critics view the move with skepticism, questioning the genuineness of the "empathy tour" and suggesting it might be politically motivated. Some see it as an attempt to capitalize on public dissatisfaction with the Ruto administration and reassert Uhuru's influence in the region.

"This is nothing but a political ploy," claimed Dennis Itumbi, a Ruto ally and blogger. "They are trying to exploit people's suffering for their own gain. They should first explain their role in the economic mess we are in before coming out to pretend they care."

While the true intentions behind the tour remain unclear, the initiative undoubtedly presents a challenge for President Ruto. The Mt. Kenya region, traditionally considered his stronghold, is showing signs of shifting loyalty. If Uhuru's lieutenants manage to effectively tap into the existing discontent and offer a credible alternative, it could significantly impact the political landscape in the coming months.

The success of the "empathy tour" will hinge on its ability to genuinely connect with the concerns of Mt. Kenya residents and offer concrete solutions to their problems. It will also depend on how the Ruto administration counters this move and addresses the grievances of the people in the region.

One thing is certain: the political battle lines in Mt. Kenya are being redrawn, and the coming months will be crucial in determining the future of the region's political landscape.

The tour is expected to start in Ruto's own backyard of Uasin Gishu County, a move that is sure to raise eyebrows and intensify political scrutiny. It remains to be seen whether the "empathy tour" will truly bring solace to struggling Kenyans or simply be another chapter in the ongoing political game of musical chairs in Kenya.