Uhuru hits back at Ruto: Kenyans will choose their president in 2027
Jameni chungeni, sitaki kuitwa sponsor, Uhuru said, drawing laughter from the audience.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged President William Ruto to cease efforts to locate retired President Uhuru Kenyatta in his own residence, criticizing attempts to split the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election. Addressing a church service in Nyeri County on August 23, 2026, Gachagua emphasized the need for political leaders from the region to unite people rather than create divisions.
He also defended Uhuru against reports of a potential political reconciliation with Ruto, stating that the retired president made the right decision to reject a handshake with his successor. Gachagua maintained that efforts to fragment the region would fail, asserting that the mountain must remain politically united. He further indicated his engagements with leaders from Lower Eastern and planned to connect with Isiolo and Marsabit leaders, positioning these as part of the Mt Kenya North bloc.
His statements emerged amid heightened political mobilization across the country in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. Gachagua also addressed the political dynamics between Uhuru and Ruto, objecting to attempts to involve the retired president in the current administration's political conflicts. He remarked, "Uhuru amekataa kufanya handshake na William Ruto.
Umefanya vizuri kukataa handshake," and questioned Ruto's pursuit of Uhuru's political involvement, stating, "You pretend for looking for him, Ruto." These remarks echo his previous criticism of Ruto over references to an unnamed political supporter backing his opponents. In a church service in Gatundu South on August 16, 2026, Gachagua similarly advised Ruto to leave Uhuru alone, asserting that the former president is not responsible for the current administration's challenges.
"I want to tell William Ruto to be here at the house of President Uhuru Kenyatta, please meet with President Uhuru Kenyatta," Gachagua stated. "President Uhuru Kenyatta does not cause those problems you claim; you create them for yourself." Gachagua's latest comments underscore the escalating political battle over the Mt Kenya region as various parties and leaders prepare for the 2027 General Election.
Written by urgent.news from People Daily Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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