BY REUBEBN MUSONIK, POLITICAL EDITOR

The race for the Deputy Presidency is heating up in Kenya as whispers of Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment continue to swirl around Nairobi. At the heart of this unfolding drama, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga have emerged as the frontrunners for the post, should Gachagua be ousted. In a country where political ambitions can shift in the blink of an eye, this brewing contest has all the makings of a high-stakes political thriller.

The Power Struggle Unfolds

Recent weeks have seen a surge in speculation about Gachagua’s future, with mounting pressure on President William Ruto to consider reshuffling his leadership team. Sources close to the corridors of power suggest that Ruto, fresh from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, used his stopover in Dubai to meet key players in Kenyan politics. Discussions reportedly centred on the future of the deputy presidency – a role that has become a hotbed of political intrigue.

President Ruto’s meetings in Dubai have intensified rumours, particularly with whispers of discussions involving opposition leader Raila Odinga’s camp. It appears that Kenya’s top brass may be weighing options beyond Gachagua, with a view towards more diverse leadership that could reshape the country’s political future.

Musalia Mudavadi: The Steady Hand

One name that continues to crop up is Musalia Mudavadi. Seen as a seasoned political operator with deep roots in Western Kenya, Mudavadi is a stalwart of Kenyan politics. His calm, diplomatic demeanour and years of experience have earned him respect across the political spectrum. For Ruto, Mudavadi represents a safe bet, offering a strong and stable hand to steer the ship, especially as the President looks ahead to the next general elections in 2027.

Mudavadi’s appeal lies not only in his extensive political career but also in the regional alliances he can bring to the table. Western Kenya is a significant voting bloc, and aligning with Mudavadi could secure Ruto’s grip on the region, especially as Mt. Kenya’s loyalty begins to waver. His tenure as Prime Cabinet Secretary has also earned him credibility as a leader capable of navigating the complexities of high office.

Gladys Wanga: The New Powerhouse

In contrast to Mudavadi’s steady rise through the political ranks, Governor Gladys Wanga has emerged as a fresh face, championing the cause of Nyanza and beyond. The Homa Bay Governor has become a symbol of progress, and if appointed, would make history as Kenya’s first female deputy president. Wanga’s ability to galvanise support, particularly in her native Nyanza, has made her a formidable contender for the position.

Raila Odinga is reportedly pushing Wanga’s candidacy, aiming to build a strong coalition that could rival any future political manoeuvres by Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza alliance. Wanga’s rise has been meteoric, with her ability to blend regional politics with a national outlook. She has shown that she can rally support not just for herself, but for Odinga as well, making her an attractive candidate for the deputy presidency.

The Mt. Kenya Factor: Gachagua Has Lost Favour

One of the most compelling dynamics in this race is the question of Mt. Kenya’s grip on power. Historically, the region has produced some of Kenya’s top leaders, including three presidents and several deputy presidents. However, the tide appears to be turning, with growing sentiment that it’s time for other regions to step into the political spotlight.

Gachagua’s fate seems increasingly uncertain, as murmurs of discontent swirl through both political circles and Mt. Kenya itself. With mounting dissatisfaction among lawmakers in the region and questions about Gachagua’s ability to deliver, Ruto may be considering alternatives. Mudavadi and Wanga represent two paths – Western Kenya or Nyanza – both of which would be symbolic of a broader national agenda that moves away from Mt. Kenya’s historical dominance.

Kithure Kindiki: Sidelined Amid Scandal

One name that had briefly entered the conversation as a potential successor to Gachagua was Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki. However, recent controversies surrounding his handling of nationwide protests – which saw a troubling number of deaths and disappearances – appear to have tainted his chances. Kindiki’s association with the unrest has made him an unpopular choice, with concerns that appointing him could further inflame tensions among Kenya’s increasingly disaffected youth.

Kindiki’s fall from grace is a reminder that political fortunes can turn on a dime in Kenya, and Ruto’s decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the country’s future leadership.

What’s Next for Ruto?

As President Ruto prepares for upcoming tours of Western Kenya and Nyanza, the political chessboard is being set. With the backing of Western leaders, Musalia Mudavadi offers a vision of continuity and stability. But with Wanga, Ruto could make a bold statement, embracing a female leader and forging new alliances that could reshape the political map ahead of the 2027 elections.

The next few weeks are likely to be pivotal. As the political temperature rises, all eyes will be on Ruto as he weighs his options. Should Gachagua be removed from his post, the decision about who will step into the Deputy President’s shoes will not only define the next chapter of his presidency but may also alter the trajectory of Kenyan politics for years to come.

It’s a delicate balance. Will Ruto opt for Mudavadi’s seasoned hand or Wanga’s fresh approach? One thing is certain: this battle for the deputy presidency is far from over. Buckle up – it’s going to be an exciting ride.