The time has come for former President Uhuru Kenyatta to make the dignified transition from an active political player to a respected elder statesman.
His continued energy and passion for Kenya are admirable, but remaining at the center of party politics risks diminishing his legacy and crowding out the new generation of leaders the country so urgently needs.
Uhuru Kenyatta has long championed the idea of generational change — encouraging young leaders to step forward and shape the nation’s future.
Yet, by maintaining direct control of the Jubilee Party, he sends a conflicting message. It creates a political bottleneck that limits innovation and fresh leadership within his own camp.
True generational transition requires those who have walked the long road to step aside, not out of weakness, but wisdom.
If Uhuru truly believes in nurturing the next crop of leaders, then allowing Jubilee — and indeed national politics — to evolve beyond him would be the ultimate act of mentorship.
A former president’s influence is not measured by how loudly they speak, but by how thoughtfully they are heard.
History has shown that leaders who embrace neutrality after office earn far greater reverence and influence than those who stay politically entangled.
By stepping away from partisan politics, Uhuru could take up roles that command international respect — as a regional peace mediator, global advocate for African interests, or mentor to the continent’s young leaders.
His diplomatic experience, especially in the East African region, uniquely positions him for such statesmanship.
It would also shield him from the inevitable mudslinging that comes with political rivalry, allowing his legacy to mature in dignity rather than controversy.
Political observers often note that the enduring value of a retired president lies in their ability to offer counsel from above the fray.
As one analyst once put it, a retired leader should “exit the stage respectfully and remain the person both sides can call upon when the nation is in crisis.”
For Uhuru, this would mean transitioning from political strategist to national elder — a voice of reason that can unify rather than divide.
Uhuru’s presidency delivered milestones that should not be overshadowed by partisan noise — from transformative infrastructure projects to efforts at reconciliation during turbulent political times.
To preserve that legacy, stepping back is not retreat; it’s reinforcement.
Kenya needs Uhuru Kenyatta — not as a party leader fighting for relevance, but as a statesman standing for unity, stability, and progress. History remembers those who know when to lead — and when to let go.
