The political landscape in Kenya is heating up as the 2027 general election draws near, with new alliances and old rivalries set to shape the race.
Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Muhoho Kenyatta, the younger brother of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, are reportedly planning to join forces for a presidential bid.
However, they will face stiff competition from the incumbent, President William Ruto, who recently appointed Kithure Kindiki as his Deputy President, following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua.
Gachagua’s Potential Support for the Kenyatta-Matiang’i Team?
The latest political rumor making the rounds is that Gachagua, who has been embroiled in controversy following his impeachment, may lend his support to the Matiang’i-Muhoho ticket.
Sources suggest that Gachagua’s decision to back this team could be a symbolic gesture of reconciliation with the Kenyatta family.
The move is seen as an attempt to make amends for the bitter political campaign in 2022, which saw Gachagua and other members of the Kenya Kwanza team deliver harsh criticisms and insults aimed at the Kenyatta family, particularly Uhuru Kenyatta and his political legacy.
Read also:Kalonzo, Matiang’i, Natembeya – The Powerful 2027 Coalition to Tackle Ruto
If Gachagua does decide to support Matiang’i and Muhoho, it would be a remarkable twist in the region’s political dynamics.
Political analysts argue that Gachagua’s support could help strengthen the Kenyatta-Matiang’i ticket and serve as a way of mending fences with a family whose influence still holds sway in many parts of Kenya.
A New Strategy: Reviving the Jubilee Party
In addition to the possible support from Gachagua, there are growing indications that the Kenyatta family may not only play a behind-the-scenes role in the 2027 election but could also revive the Jubilee Party as part of their strategy.
Political pundits familiar with developments reveal that plans are already underway to relaunch Jubilee, which was once the dominant political party during Uhuru Kenyatta’s presidency.
This revival could potentially present a formidable challenge to the Kenya Kwanza coalition and other political outfits seeking to control the Mt. Kenya region.
Divergent Views on the Emerging Political Landscape
Political analysts are divided on the viability of the Matiang’i-Muhoho ticket, especially with the involvement of Gachagua and the potential revival of Jubilee.
Some see the alliance as a strategic move to unite the Kenyatta family’s supporters, who may be disillusioned with President Ruto’s leadership.
Charles Ndegwa, a political analyst, believes that the partnership could provide a powerful counterweight to Ruto’s administration, especially if they manage to galvanize the Mt. Kenya region, which is still crucial in any presidential election.
“The Kenyatta family’s influence, combined with Matiang’i’s administrative experience, could form a strong ticket, with Gachagua’s support adding another layer of legitimacy,” Mwangi notes.
However, others are more skeptical. Sarah Noki, a political activist , a former politician from the region, warns that while the Kenyatta family has deep political roots, Kenyans may be seeking fresh leadership after decades of political dominance.
“The Kenyatta family has been central to Kenya’s political life for a long time, but the electorate is now looking for change. A revival of Jubilee may not resonate with a population that is frustrated by the high cost of living and political dynasties,” she observes.
Furthermore, the involvement of Gachagua, a key figure in the Kenya Kwanza administration, adds a layer of complexity.
Albert Kasembeli, a political analyst and columnist , suggests that Gachagua’s support for the Kenyatta-Matiang’i team could alienate his supporters within the current government.
“Gachagua’s endorsement might be seen as a betrayal by some of his constituents who continue to back Ruto. It’s uncertain whether his influence can truly shift the tide in favor of Matiang’i and Muhoho,” he argues.
A Tight Race for 2027
Other analysts argue that with Gachagua’s possible support, the revival of Jubilee, and a fractured political landscape in Mt. Kenya, the stage is set for a fierce and unpredictable race.
The big question remains
Will the Kenyatta family’s legacy be enough to reclaim political power, or will President Ruto’s coalition hold sway in the next election?
