Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reinforced his status as one of President William Ruto’s most trusted allies at a time when the political landscape is precarious following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
On Thursday, President Ruto appointed Mudavadi to act as Cabinet Secretary in the critical Ministry of Interior and National Government Administration after Prof. Kindiki Kithure resigned to assume his new role as the new Deputy President.
Before the involvement of ODM leader Raila Odinga in the political arena, Mudavadi served as a stabilizing force in Ruto’s government, especially as tensions rose between the Deputy President and the Head of State. With Gachagua’s position protected under the 2010 Constitution, Mudavadi emerged as a significant Cabinet member when Ruto opted to restructure the administration amid unprecedented protests led by the youth movement, Generation Z.
This shakeup allowed ODM leaders such as Hassan Joho, Wycliffe Oparanya, and John Mbadi to join the government in various ministerial roles, reflecting a broader political realignment. In a recent reshuffle, Ruto expanded Mudavadi’s responsibilities, placing him at the helm of the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, thus enhancing his international profile and positioning him for potential future presidential aspirations.
Mudavadi and Ruto share a long-standing political history dating back to the administration of former President Daniel arap Moi. Both were instrumental in the formation of ODM and were set to play significant roles in a government led by Raila after the disputed 2007 elections, where they ultimately served in the grand coalition.
As discussions of political alliances for the 2027 elections heat up, analysts suggest that Mudavadi’s calm demeanor stands in stark contrast to Gachagua’s more combative style, making him a favored choice among political circles. Dr. Wanguhu Gitonga, a political analyst, notes that Mudavadi’s measured approach has resonated well, especially as tensions rise within the corridors of power.
Mudavadi, who previously campaigned with the slogan of being a “safe pair of hands,” is now positioned as a key player in any future alliances Ruto may seek, especially if the Mt. Kenya region becomes less supportive.
While he was considered a contender to replace Gachagua, Ruto ultimately chose Prof. Kindiki. Nevertheless, with the political landscape shifting and Raila potentially stepping back, Mudavadi is in a prime position to inherit leadership in the Western bloc and enhance his chances of succeeding Ruto in the future.
