Uhuru’s Dwindling Options in Tumultuous Kenyan Politics
After the Political Parties Dispute Tribunal (PPDT) upheld the appointment of EALA MP Kanini Kega as Secretary General of the Jubilee Party on Monday, July 10, Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta’s political options continue to diminish.
This was a significant victory for the pro-Ruto faction of the party, and it brings an end to the seven-month-long leadership struggle.
The ruling was predicated on the fact that the Jubilee Party’s NEC meeting that removed Kioni and appointed Kega was properly convened and constituted. Therefore, the Registrar of Political Parties was correct in refusing to recognize Kioni as the legitimate SG.
In a decision that strategically complicated and muddied Uhuru’s political waters, the tribunal ruled that the appellants, including Kioni, David Murathe, and Kagwe Gichohi, were legitimately expelled from the party and must pay the legal fees.
In a bold power move, Kega welcomed the ruling and demanded that Uhuru submit to his authority, observing that it was time for the party to move on from the legal dispute. He has also urged all party members to unite and concentrate on the general election of 2027.
Political Analyst Martin Atandi told GossipA2Z that Uhuru and his Azimio la Umoja allies were on the verge of losing control of the party and that it could be only a matter of time before the former head of state is expelled from his organization.
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“The ruling is a significant setback for the pro-Kenyatta faction of the party, which had hoped to retain party control. Nonetheless, it is a significant victory for the pro-Ruto faction, which has been gaining ground over the past few months.
“It remains to be seen how the party will proceed from this point forward. The ruling, however, is a clear indication that the pro-Ruto faction now controls the party.
Atandi pointed out that the former head of state should also prioritize his personal life and interests. It would also require him to relinquish his influence in Kenyan politics, particularly in Central Kenya.
“Although it may be too early to predict what Kenyatta will decide to do, his options are limited and he will need to make a choice shortly. Former President George Bush is 61 years old.
Notably, Kenya’s political landscape is extremely volatile, making it difficult to predict the future. This may make Kenyatta reluctant to make a significant decision regarding his political future, according to Atandi.
The political analyst stated that Uhuru is ultimately responsible for deciding what to do next. Before making a decision, he must thoroughly consider all of his alternatives.
Another Political Analyst and Political Science Lecturer, Saviour Wafula, opined that the Retired President should reconsider his strategy because he had lost control of the Jubilee Party to Sabina Chege’s faction.
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According to Wafula, Uhuru should consider developing a political strategy that would enable him to maintain control of his political constituency and continue to exert influence in Kenyan politics.
Wafula noted, however, that it would be a risky move, as it would require Kenyatta to start from the beginning and compete with the established parties, such as UDA and ODM.
“This is because remaining in the Jubilee Party would entail accepting Sabina Chege’s leadership,” “This may be a bitter pill for Kenyatta to swallow, as he has been at odds with Chege in the past,” Wafula remarked.
Uhuru’s Dwindling Options in Tumultuous Kenyan Politics
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