Former President Uhuru Kenyatta addressed a funeral in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, urging Mt Kenya voters to avoid the costly mistake of the 2022 General Election. He expressed concern about the region's political trajectory, recalling his attempts to persuade voters to back the Azimio la Umoja ticket led by Raila Odinga and Martha Karua. Kenyatta had expected the alliance to steer the country in a different direction.
Kenyatta's remarks come as political parties and leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. He dismissed recent allegations from President William Ruto and allies that he was acting as a political "sponsor" by funding opposition figures. Kenyatta stated he has no plans to run for elective office again and is satisfied with his current role.
During the funeral, several senior opposition and former government figures were in attendance, including former Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Nyandarua Senator John Methu called on Kenyatta to provide financial support to his party. The gathering highlighted the political tension surrounding Kenyatta's alleged funding of opposition figures.
Kenyatta has repeatedly rejected the "sponsor" label, sometimes responding with humour. He added that although he has retired from electoral politics, he continues to comment on national affairs. His current role within the Jubilee Party includes a senior advisory position, while former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i now leads the party.
The Mt Kenya region is a significant bloc in Kenyan politics, and various leaders are vying for its support ahead of the 2027 election. Kenyatta's influence in the region is being closely watched, with some critics linking him to the Linda Mwananchi movement and other initiatives that challenge the current administration.
Kenyatta's speech at the funeral was seen as an attempt to shape the narrative around his role in Kenyan politics. He emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences and urged residents to make informed decisions in upcoming polls. The event provided a platform for leaders to engage with voters and articulate their visions for the region's future.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, Kenyan politicians are intensifying their efforts to secure support from various regions. Kenyatta's stance on the allegations against him and his advice to Mt Kenya voters are likely to have implications for the region's political alignment. The former president's continued involvement in national affairs will be closely monitored by his peers and the public.
Key points
- Uhuru Kenyatta cautions Mt Kenya voters to learn from the 2022 election.
- Kenyatta denies allegations of financing opposition figures.
- The Mt Kenya region is a significant bloc in Kenyan politics ahead of the 2027 election.
