Moses Kuria Under Fire After Branding Kang’ata ‘Kiherehere 001’

Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has sparked criticism after he shared a graphic on X targeting Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and labelled him “Kiherehere 001.”

The graphic, which featured Kang’ata’s photo alongside the phrase “Kiherehere 001” quickly drew reactions from Kenyans and allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

As a result, critics accused Kuria of launching a personal attack against the governor.

The exchange comes at a time when political tensions continue to rise among leaders in the Mt Kenya region.

Earlier, on July 13, 2026, Kuria invited the Linda Mwananchi movement to Nyahururu and said leaders should protect political competition and democratic space.

He also revealed that he had reached out to Kang’ata to express solidarity amid the ongoing disagreements over the movement’s activities.

Also Read: Gachagua Demands Withdrawal of Plainclothes Police Ahead of Ol Kalou By-Election

Karungo Wa Thang’wa Critize Kuria

Meanwhile, Murang’a Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa strongly defended Kang’ata and criticised Kuria’s remarks.

“But at least he has a way higher moral standing than you,” he stated.

At the same time, several Kenyans criticised Kuria’s remarks and accused him of disrespecting leaders from the region.

“You guys want to ring fence murima ndio you use votes to negotiate sio? Tunawaonea 18. Mtatupata ground. Kangata amefanya kazi yake. Wacheni siasa chafu.” Irungu Ochieng Nyachiro wrote.

Similarly, Jymie, questioned the tone of the exchange and urged leaders to act responsibly.

“Imagine tinting your own negativity to be seen as clever, but inside you know it isn’t right. Show me any other tribes that would do this to their own, even with political differences. Have some dignity and see tomorrow as a better day,” he wrote.

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Mixed Reactions Online

In addition, Muthoni wa Muthomo rejected any link between Kuria and the Linda Mwananchi movement.

“Linda Mwananchi cannot join with you, Kuria. Kwaza, now that you are bringing goons to Central. Never,” she said.

On the other hand, some users mocked Kuria and questioned the timing of his remarks in connection with the Ol Kalou by-election.

“Aki wasee wameanza kiherehere mapema na bado ballot papers hazijafika pale Olkalou,” WinnieSpeaks wrote.

“They reduced you from CS to Ol Kalou campaign manager; you should probably focus on that,” Falcone added.

Kang’ata’s Shift to Linda Mwananchi

Overall, the exchange highlights the growing political divisions in the Mt Kenya region as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Notably, Kang’ata intensified the rivalry after he made a surprise appearance at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Thika on June 14, 2026 and then officially joined the movement on June 17, 2026, ditching UDA.

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Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata joins the Linda Mwananchi group led by Edwin Sifuna during a political meeting in Thika on June 14, 2026. PHOTO/ Dennis Onsongo