Monday’s meeting marked only the second public interaction between Ruto and Uhuru since the 2022 elections, following their brief encounter during Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u’s consecration. At that event, Ruto faced boos as he attempted to rally support for the beleaguered Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), a program that has struggled since its launch on October 1. Other key government initiatives, such as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the new university funding model, remain in limbo, with courts and logistical challenges derailing progress
Faced with mounting restlessness in the Mt Kenya region following the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, President William Ruto on Monday made a politically charged visit to his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, at the Kenyatta family home in Gatundu. This unexpected move by President Ruto signals an attempt to ease political tensions and address growing dissatisfaction among Kenyans over economic hardships and stalled flagship projects.
Despite stepping back from active politics, Uhuru Kenyatta remains a significant figure, particularly in Mt Kenya. Many locals view Gachagua’s ouster as a betrayal, leading to regret over their overwhelming support for Ruto in the 2022 election, against Uhuru’s advice. During the campaign, Uhuru had urged the region to reject Ruto, emphasizing his knowledge of his then-estranged deputy. Ruto, however, managed to win Mt Kenya’s favor with Gachagua’s help, leveraging the “Hustlers vs. Dynasties” narrative.
Monday’s meeting marked only the second public interaction between Ruto and Uhuru since the 2022 elections, following their brief encounter during Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung’u’s consecration. At that event, Ruto faced boos as he attempted to rally support for the beleaguered Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), a program that has struggled since its launch on October 1. Other key government initiatives, such as the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the new university funding model, remain in limbo, with courts and logistical challenges derailing progress.
A State House dispatch highlighted that the two leaders discussed issues of national and regional importance, with Ruto expressing gratitude for Uhuru’s statesmanship in overseeing a peaceful transition of power and the foundation he laid for development. They also endorsed Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship, urging international support.
The meeting comes amid speculation of a looming Cabinet reshuffle, with Ruto reportedly seeking to accommodate Uhuru Kenyatta’s loyalists. Former CS Mutahi Kagwe’s name has surfaced in online discussions as a potential candidate for the Internal Security docket. There are also rumours that Uhuru is quietly crafting an alliance to back Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka for the presidency in 2027.
Uhuru’s recent appearance at the wedding of Kalonzo’s daughter further fueled speculation of a potential partnership, possibly involving Gachagua and his allies.
Ruto’s administration faces criticism from religious leaders, civil society, and citizens over its response to protests and economic challenges. Public outrage over high taxation, stalled projects, and the alleged targeting of Uhuru’s family, including the infamous Northlands farm raid, has compounded these tensions.
Both leaders underscored the importance of fostering harmony among Kenyans and stakeholders, including government branches, religious leaders, and civil society, to achieve national stability and progress.
Whether the Gatundu meeting signifies a genuine attempt to bridge political divides or a strategic manoeuvre to quell unrest remains to be seen. However, it underscores the growing complexity of Kenya’s political landscape as the government grapples with internal and external pressures.
