By REUBEN MUSONIK, THE DISPATCH DIGITAL
As Kenya approaches the 2027 general elections, the Mt. Kenya region—a historically significant voting bloc—is experiencing growing dissatisfaction with President William Ruto’s administration. This discontent is prompting a search for a new presidential candidate, with potential contenders such as Dr. Fred Matiang’i, former Nyeri County Senator Mutahi Kagwe, and Wiper Party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka emerging as influential figures. Additionally, the involvement of Raila Odinga and ODM leaders in Ruto’s Cabinet, as well as Kalonzo Musyoka’s strategic positioning, are crucial in shaping the region’s political dynamics.
The Mt. Kenya region, which strongly supported William Ruto in the 2022 elections, is reportedly feeling let down by his administration. Many residents believe that the promises made during the campaign, including economic revitalization, infrastructural development, and fair representation in government, have not been fulfilled. This has led to growing frustration among both the electorate and local leaders, who feel that the region, traditionally a key player in Kenyan politics, has been sidelined.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, a central figure from the Mt. Kenya region, has been a staunch supporter of Ruto. However, his political future seems uncertain as rumors of a rift between him and Ruto continue to surface. Gachagua’s influence may be waning due to the growing discontent among the electorate. If he is perceived as too closely aligned with an administration that the region feels has not delivered, it could jeopardize his standing in the 2027 elections.
Raila Odinga and ODM Leaders in Ruto’s Cabinet
The inclusion of ODM leaders in Ruto’s Cabinet has added another layer of complexity to the political situation in Mt. Kenya. Traditionally, Raila Odinga and his party, ODM, have not enjoyed strong support in the region, which has historically aligned with leaders from the Kikuyu community. However, Ruto’s decision to bring ODM leaders into his Cabinet has raised eyebrows and stirred debate and resentment among Mt. Kenya residents.
For some, the inclusion of ODM figures is seen as a pragmatic move by Ruto to broaden his political base and create a more inclusive government. However, others view it with suspicion, fearing that it could dilute the influence of Mt. Kenya within the administration. This has led to concerns that the region’s interests may be compromised or overshadowed by the political agendas of other regions.
Raila Odinga’s role in shaping the political landscape of Mt. Kenya cannot be underestimated. Despite his historical struggles to gain a foothold in the region, Raila remains a formidable figure in Kenyan politics. His ability to influence the direction of the opposition, and now potentially the government through ODM’s participation, has significant implications for Mt. Kenya’s political future.
Raila’s support for candidates who align with his vision could sway a portion of the electorate in Mt. Kenya, especially if those candidates promise to address the region’s grievances more effectively than Ruto has. However, this influence is tempered by the region’s deep-seated political allegiances and the enduring legacy of leaders like former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
The Strategic Positioning of Kalonzo Musyoka
Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of the Wiper Democratic Movement, is also strategically positioning himself as a potential contender in the 2027 elections. Kalonzo’s approach has been one of cautious alliance-building, seeking to appeal to regions beyond his traditional Eastern Kenya stronghold. His involvement in coalition-building efforts with Raila Odinga and other leaders is indicative of his broader strategy to present himself as a unifying candidate.
Kalonzo’s ability to garner support from the Mt. Kenya region could be a game-changer in the 2027 elections. His moderate stance and reputation as a peace-seeker resonate with voters looking for stability and continuity. Furthermore, Kalonzo’s outreach to disaffected Mt. Kenya leaders, who feel sidelined by Ruto’s administration, could bolster his candidacy.
The Rise of Fred Matiang’i and Mutahi Kagwe
In light of the dissatisfaction with Ruto’s administration, Mt. Kenya leaders and voters are considering alternative candidates who might better represent their interests. Dr. Fred Matiang’i, the former Cabinet Secretary for Interior and Coordination of National Government, has emerged as a potential presidential candidate. Known for his no-nonsense approach to governance and his ability to get things done, Matiang’i has built a reputation as a competent and reliable leader.
The consideration of Matiang’i as a potential candidate is also bolstered by the possibility of Mutahi Kagwe, the former Nyeri County Senator and Cabinet Secretary for Health, being his running mate. Kagwe is well-respected in the region and is seen as someone who could effectively bridge the gap between national interests and the specific needs of the Mt. Kenya region. Matiang’i is also from the Gusii community, which is numerically inferior t the Kikuyu and therefore not a direct threat in ethnic superiority.
The Role of Uhuru Kenyatta
The involvement of former President Uhuru Kenyatta in backing Dr. Matiang’i is a significant development. Kenyatta, who remains a powerful figure in the Mt. Kenya region despite his retirement, has reportedly thrown his weight behind Matiang’i as a candidate who could unite the region and offer an alternative to the current administration.
Kenyatta’s support for Matiang’i can be seen as a continuation of the political alliance that existed during his presidency, where Matiang’i played a crucial role in his administration. By supporting Matiang’i, Kenyatta could be aiming to secure his legacy and ensure that the Mt. Kenya region remains influential in national politics.
Moreover, Kenyatta’s endorsement of Matiang’i could also be a strategic move to counter the influence of Ruto in the region. By rallying behind Matiang’i, Kenyatta might be attempting to reassert his influence over the region’s political direction, which has been increasingly contested by Ruto’s camp.
The growing support for an alternative candidate like Matiang’i, coupled with the potential fallout between Gachagua and Ruto, underscores the shifting political dynamics in Mt. Kenya. The region, which has traditionally been a kingmaker in Kenyan politics, is showing signs of disillusionment with the current administration, prompting a search for new leadership that can better represent its interests.
The strategic positioning of Kalonzo Musyoka adds another layer of complexity to this evolving landscape. If he can successfully appeal to the Mt. Kenya electorate and secure alliances with other key regions, he could emerge as a formidable contender in the 2027 elections. However, the political landscape remains fragmented, and it remains to be seen whether Matiang’i, Kagwe, or Kalonzo can consolidate enough support to pose a serious challenge to Ruto’s re-election bid.