Despite handing power to his deputy William Ruto three years ago, retired President Uhuru Kenyatta is far from finished with politics. More than ever, he appears determined to influence the 2027 presidential election.
This would not be the first time he has attempted to install a president after himself. His preferred candidate in the last election, Raila Odinga, came second after Dr William Ruto.
Mr Kenyatta is backing former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, and has vowed to rectify the “mistakes” made in 2022.
During a meeting of Jubilee Party leaders in Murang’a County yesterday, the former president said he settled on Dr Matiang’i “not because of favouritism or any other consideration... I have never been to his home”.
His choice has slighted others in Mt Kenya, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua already reading mischief.
While Mr Gachagua feels the strong presence of Jubilee and Mr Kenyatta in the Mountain would harm his chances, the fourth president asked his supporters not to hurl insults at Riggy G – Mr Gachagua’s other nickname.
“To you Jeremiah Kioni (Jubilee secretary-general), this trend insulting other leaders in the name of defending our party is rubbish. I don’t want to hear anyone insulting Gachagua.
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