PREMIUM Crowned but contested? Kindiki coronation and risky bet on Mt Kenya East Political pundits say the local endorsement could expose Kindiki's limited political base. Politics 18 min ago

Mr Warui explained the coronation has also reinforced perceptions that Prof Kindiki could be behind Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku’s campaign to create an independent Mt Kenya East political bloc.

Prof Kindiki has previously complained that it is unfair for Mt Kenya West to portray itself as comfortable only when it wields political power but becomes jittery when power is held by leaders from the East.

Mr Munywoki estimates that, from a Mt Kenya East voting bloc of about two million people, turnout deficits and a divided vote could leave Prof Kindiki with fewer than one million votes.