Allegations Emerge Why Ichung'wah Was Not Offered a Chance to Address Mourners at Kiaraho's Requiem

Kimani Ichung'wah, the Majority Leader in Kenya’s National Assembly and Member of Parliament for Kikuyu Constituency, was notably absent from the list of speakers during the requiem mass of the late David Kiaraho, held at Ol Kalou Stadium in Nyandarua County on April 8, 2025.

According to a report published by People Daily on April 9, the decision to deny Ichung’wah a speaking slot was made by event organizers who feared a hostile reaction from the crowd. 

The gathering was reportedly tense, and there were concerns that the lawmaker could face jeers and chants if given the microphone.

Despite not addressing mourners, Ichung’wah became a central topic during the event. Nyandarua Senator John Methu openly criticized him in the presence of President William Ruto. 

Methu challenged Ichung’wah to publicly repeat remarks he allegedly made against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in previous engagements.

Gachagua himself also took aim at the Majority Leader, accusing him of betraying the Kikuyu community and labeling him a liability to the ruling Kenya Kwanza administration. 

He further alleged that Ichung’wah has been misleading President Ruto, contributing to a decline in the President’s popularity within the Mt Kenya region.

The incident highlights growing political tensions within the region, particularly among leaders aligned to the current administration. 

While Ichung’wah has remained a key ally of President Ruto, the public criticism directed at him during such a solemn event underscores deepening divisions that could have broader implications for regional and national politics.