Kioni Denies Political Partnership Between Ruto and Uhuru After Surprise Meeting
On Monday, December 9, 2024, President William Ruto’s unexpected visit to former President Uhuru Kenyatta sparked widespread speculation about the possibility of a new political partnership between the two. Many saw it as a potential political ‘handshake.’
However, Uhuru’s allies, led by Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni, quickly denied rumors of a coalition between the two leaders.
There were reports suggesting that Uhuru might receive four cabinet positions, including the vacant Interior Ministry. Kioni, however, dismissed such ideas, clarifying that it was not Uhuru’s style to bring people into government through such arrangements.
“On the issue of whether or not Uhuru will bring in experts like those from ODM (Orange Democratic Movement), that’s just not how he operates. He values a strong opposition because it helps democracy grow,” Kioni explained.
“He (Uhuru) does not believe in absorbing people into government in that way,” Kioni added.
Kioni further emphasized that Uhuru’s meeting with Ruto should not be seen as a precursor to an alliance. He pointed out that during his presidency, Uhuru often consulted leaders outside of his government, including opposition figures, but never brought them into the government.
“Uhuru believes consulting with me is not the same as being brought into the government. He consulted with Raila many times during Jubilee, but never included him in the government. For instance, the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) was discussed with the opposition,” Kioni noted.
Despite both Ruto and Uhuru calling the meeting a discussion on important national and regional issues, many political observers speculated that the real purpose behind it was the formation of a partnership. Reports soon emerged suggesting that Uhuru was set to join Ruto’s government and that he and his allies would be part of a ‘super broad-based government’ leading into the 2027 elections.
Meanwhile, leaders loyal to the impeached former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua voiced their disappointment over the summit, calling it an attempt by Ruto to win back the Mt. Kenya region, which is politically uncertain. Embakasi North MP James Gakuya firmly stated that the position of Mt. Kenya would remain unchanged, regardless of Ruto’s efforts.
“There is no single change that will shift Mt. Kenya from where it stands today. I want to tell my good friend Uhuru, who I respect deeply, that we still respect you, but you should keep your dignity intact. Don’t let yourself be tainted by this,” he warned.
This all comes in the wake of a statement from former politician Moses Kuria on December 10, calling on Ruto, Uhuru, and Raila to unite for the sake of leading the country towards a new constitution.
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Kioni Denies Political Partnership Between Ruto and Uhuru After Surprise Meeting
