By Beauttah Omanga

A behind-the-scenes political struggle has emerged between Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta and Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth.

Kenneth is said to have lately attracted considerable support in Central Province.

Even though neither has spoken openly about the issue, a quiet battle for clout is brewing between them.

As Uhuru struggles with the arithmetic of making a better shot at the presidency, Kenneth could be the man who may determine the Finance Minister’s chances of consolidating Central behind him.

The rift between the two politicians became evident last week at a fundraising at the Gatanga Catholic Parish, Kenneth’s backyard.

Uhuru had apparently agreed to officiate at the fundraising without involving Kenneth.

He is said to have abandoned the function at the eleventh hour with some claiming he realised the area MP was going to attend.

Instead, he sent his cousin Ngengi Muigai to represent him.

The fundraising went on with Kenneth as the chief guest.

Comments by the MP at the function bespoke the chasm between the two politicians.

"I am surprised another leader would organise an event in my constituency without my blessings. I will never block anybody from visiting my constituency, but let those leaders open up their constituencies first to other leaders," said Kenneth.

The developments come against calls for Central Province residents to elect leaders who do not come from "political kingdoms".

"Leadership is not meant to come from a particular place. Let Kenyans decide for themselves whom to support irrespective of his or her origin. Kenya needs a fresh start and there are so many young people ready to offer leadership," he said.

Of note also was the fact that some members of the proposed Kikuyu council of elders handed him a torch, which he was urged to "use to preach peace and as a representative of a new start and fresh leadership in the Mt Kenya region".

Even though Kenneth downplayed the praises heaped on his leadership by speakers, he seemed agitated that Uhuru had organised the function, without his consent only to skip it.

Contacted by The Standard on Sunday, Kenneth declined to comment on the events, but said his main focus is to serve Gatanga people.

Sports Assistant Minister Kabando wa Kabando said though the seeds of change have been sown in central Kenya, it is important for residents to stay united.

"It is true there is a strong wind for change in central Kenya region but we must guard against dividing the residents between two politicians," said Kabando.

He said time is ripe for change "but it is not about individuals. Residents want something new that will see them realise their dream," he added.

Kamukunji MP Simeon Mbugua said the competition for leadership is healthy, and should be encouraged.

"I see nothing wrong with a region having two leaders attracting attention locally and beyond. What is important is that they do their thing maturely," he said.

Mbugua describes Kenneth as a "smart manager" of public resources and also cited Uhuru as "a leader who has been tested and can be banked on".

With plans afoot to launch a Kikuyu council of elders, those familiar with politics of the region say it will not be long before the tussle between the two explodes. Observers say competition from Kenneth may bog down Uhuru as he tries to build alliances with politicians from other regions.