KIRINYAGA, Kenya Apr 1 – Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has ignited fresh political debate in the Mt Kenya region after hinting at a possible future reconciliation between William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, even as she openly signaled her ambition for the country’s second-highest office.Speaking to residents in Ngariama, Gichugu Constituency on March 31, Waiguru urged Mt Kenya voters to embrace pragmatic politics, stressing that political alliances are driven by interests rather than emotions.“Politics is about interests, not a love affair,” she said.Waiguru suggested that despite the fallout between Ruto and Gachagua, a future political truce remains possible, drawing parallels with past reconciliations in Kenya’s political history.She referenced past agreements involving Raila Odinga and Uhuru Kenyatta, noting that former rivals have previously set aside differences for political convenience.“Anything can happen. We saw Raila Odinga have a handshake with Uhuru Kenyatta and later with Ruto. So why can’t Gachagua also have a handshake with Ruto in future?” she posed.Her remarks come amid shifting political alignments in Mt Kenya, where Gachagua has emerged as a key opposition figure following his fallout with the Kenya Kwanza administration.In a pointed message to the region, Waiguru cautioned against emotional politics, warning that isolation could cost Mt Kenya development opportunities.“Our votes alone cannot make Ruto president… We need other communities just as they need us,” she said.She urged the region to align with the “winning team” to safeguard its interests and maintain influence within government.The governor also appeared to criticise Gachagua over remarks urging residents to prioritise local leaders over the President during public events, suggesting such statements may hint at behind-the-scenes political maneuvering.“Why would he say that? That itself is a clear sign that a handshake can happen in future,” she said.In a bold political declaration, Waiguru openly affirmed her ambition for the deputy presidency, positioning herself as a key player in future negotiations.“I will remain in government, and at the bargaining table I am there, holding it for the people of Kirinyaga and Mt Kenya,” she said.Addressing residents of her home area, she hinted at her national ambitions:“Wouldn’t you be happy if your daughter gets a higher position?” she asked.Waiguru has previously stated that Kirinyaga County should produce the next deputy president.The governor also predicted a looming fracture within the opposition, claiming the current united front could break into multiple factions ahead of the 2027 General Election.“I know what is happening… I have access to places an ordinary mwananchi cannot reach,” she said.Waiguru’s remarks are expected to intensify political debate in Mt Kenya, a region seen as critical in shaping the outcome of the 2027 race.With shifting alliances, rising ambitions, and speculation over possible reconciliations, the region remains at the center of Kenya’s evolving political landscape.