Political analysts highlight that Uhuru’s influence over Mount Kenya voters remains strong, with many in the region still viewing him as their kingpin. Despite Gachagua’s efforts to claim leadership, the perception persists that his political theatrics lack the gravitas to challenge Uhuru’s authority
In the wake of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment, Kenya’s political landscape appears to be shifting dramatically. Reports suggest that President William Ruto is forging a quiet but strategic alliance with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, a move that could redefine political allegiances, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, ahead of the 2027 elections.
Credible sources indicate that President Ruto’s camp has reached out to Uhuru Kenyatta’s allies in a bid to secure Mount Kenya’s support. While no formal agreement has been struck, insiders reveal that discussions are centered on appointing a confidant of Uhuru to the powerful Interior Cabinet Secretary position, alongside securing key principal secretary roles for Uhuru’s allies. This potential collaboration is seen as a calculated manoeuvre to counterbalance Gachagua’s influence in the region.
Political analysts highlight that Uhuru’s influence over Mount Kenya voters remains strong, with many in the region still viewing him as their kingpin. Despite Gachagua’s efforts to claim leadership, the perception persists that his political theatrics lack the gravitas to challenge Uhuru’s authority.
Moreover, Uhuru and the extended Kenyatta family have significant business interests that depend on state protection. Aligning with Ruto, who controls the machinery of government, would provide the stability they need to safeguard these interests. Reliable sources suggest that Uhuru is more inclined to collaborate with Ruto than align with either Gachagua or Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, whose foothold in Mount Kenya remains tenuous.
Meanwhile, Martha Karua, leader of Narc-Kenya, is repositioning herself politically. Having distanced herself from Kalonzo Musyoka, she is now aligning more closely with Uhuru, a move viewed as part of her strategy to rebrand and strengthen her party. Insiders say Karua may be eyeing the Kirinyaga governorship in 2027 with Uhuru’s support, further complicating Gachagua’s attempts to establish dominance.
Gachagua’s political fortunes appear increasingly precarious. Reports suggest that he once sought Karua’s cooperation to revamp Narc-Kenya as a vehicle for his interests but was rebuffed. This rejection, combined with Ruto’s outreach to Uhuru, has left Gachagua politically isolated.
President Ruto’s decision to allow Uhuru to regain control of the Jubilee Party further underscores the depth of their potential collaboration. Analysts argue that Ruto views Jubilee as a vital tool for countering any new party that Gachagua might attempt to establish to consolidate his influence in Mount Kenya.
The anticipated entry of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i into the 2027 presidential race adds another layer of complexity. Sources indicate that Ruto sees Uhuru’s support as essential to neutralizing Matiang’i’s ambitions. Discussions about appointing former Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe as Interior Cabinet Secretary, allegedly with Uhuru’s endorsement, signal a broader strategy to consolidate influence and thwart opposition from all fronts.
As these behind-the-scenes manoeuvres unfold, it is clear that the political supremacy battle in Mount Kenya is far from over. While Gachagua may still hope to reclaim the spotlight, Ruto and Uhuru’s emerging collaboration could prove to be a game-changer, reshaping alliances and setting the stage for a high-stakes political showdown in 2027.
