Kenya's Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has accused retired President Uhuru Kenyatta of waging a political war against President William Ruto driven by personal interests. Duale made these remarks during the closing ceremony of the 8th Ura Gate Cultural Festival in Tharaka Constituency, the home turf of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. He dismissed Uhuru's influence on national politics, saying the former president's actions are self-centered.
Duale criticized Uhuru's alleged involvement in opposition politics, arguing that if he failed to secure an opposition victory in the 2022 General Election, he lacks the capacity to influence the outcome of the 2027 polls. Duale emphasized that leadership is not the exclusive preserve of any single area, cautioning against viewing top leadership as an entitlement. He stated that Kenya belongs to all its citizens.
The Cabinet Secretary expressed firm confidence that President Ruto will secure a second term in 2027, with Kindiki as his running mate. He further projected that Kindiki will succeed Ruto at the end of his term in 2032. Duale defended Kindiki's credentials, dismissing critics who question the Deputy President's suitability based on his origins from the Tharaka sub-tribe.
Duale noted that leaders from minority communities have historically risen to the highest office, citing former President Daniel arap Moi and President Ruto as examples. He stated that Kindiki will not be judged by the size of his community but by his demonstrated leadership capabilities. Duale added that he will lead campaigns for Kindiki's presidential bid post-2027.
Duale revisited the selection of the UDA running mate in 2022, alleging that the majority of delegates had originally favored Kindiki over former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. He claimed Gachagua only secured the position through intense political pressure. Duale urged the political leadership and residents of Mt Kenya East to fully rally behind Kindiki's national ambitions.
Tharaka-Nithi Governor Muthomi Njuki, who accompanied Duale, affirmed that the county's immediate political priority is ensuring Kindiki retains the deputy presidency in 2027. Governor Njuki refuted claims that the region opposes President Ruto, stating that both Mt. Kenya East and Mt. Kenya West remain united behind the current administration.
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Key points
- Duale accuses Uhuru of personal vendetta against Ruto.
- Duale backs Kindiki for 2032 presidency.
- Duale expresses confidence in Ruto's 2027 re-election bid.
