Ruto’s Mt Kenya Appointees Risk Political Futures Amidst Growing Opposition

President Ruto’s Cabinet appointees from Mt Kenya may jeopardize their chances for future elections due to declining regional support and anti-government sentiment. The appointees, including Mutahi Kagwe and Lee Kinyanjui, face challenges in revitalizing the local economy and reconciling with constituents. Political analysts express skepticism regarding their electoral viability, foreseeing difficulties for candidates aligned with Ruto leading up to 2027.

President William Ruto’s latest appointments of Cabinet Secretaries from the Mt Kenya region have raised concerns about their potential to secure future elective positions amidst growing anti-government sentiment. Sworn in on January 17, 2025, were CSs Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), Lee Kinyanjui (Trade), and William Kabogo (ICT), along with former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi, appointed KRA chairman on December 30, 2024. Their appointments were expected to ease tensions following the impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua.

Despite a 35 percent share of the Cabinet, the new appointees face significant challenges in restoring public support for the Ruto administration while managing a faltering economy. The political reputation of these seasoned politicians, particularly given their past opposition to Ruto’s presidential campaign, may suffer if economic conditions do not improve. Presently, Ruto’s standing within the Mt Kenya constituency appears to be declining.

Political analysts, such as Gibson Wambugu, express skepticism about the viability of these appointees’ political aspirations, labeling certain individuals as “spent cartridges,” and suggesting these appointments serve as opportunities for retirement rather than meaningful political advancements. In Laikipia, indications suggest a potential reshuffling of political leadership, with Cate Waruguru eyeing the governorship, while Muriithi may benefit from the existing political recycling trend in the county.

Dennis Mwangi highlights that even if Kinyanjui were to support Ruto, his prospects would be hampered by the pervasive anti-Ruto sentiment in many regions. Kinyanjui’s initial attempt to insulate himself from this sentiment by running on the Ubuntu Party was ultimately unsuccessful, leading to his candidacy under the former president’s party. Meanwhile, Mutahi Kahiga’s limited tenure may have opened avenues for Kagwe, yet their alignment with Ruto could diminish his electoral prospects significantly.

Ruto’s challenges in pacifying the Mt Kenya region are exacerbated by Gachagua’s impeachment and a prevailing negative economic climate. Many residents have explicitly rejected Ruto’s outreach, indicating a firm resolve against his governance. As stated by a former MP, the Mt Kenya populace seems resolute in their opposition and unlikely to vote in favor of Ruto in 2027.

Notably, Dr. Charles Ng’ang’a emphasizes Gachagua’s continued political activity post-impeachment, where he is striving to consolidate his influence within Mt Kenya, suggesting that his anti-Ruto stance may resonate with some constituents. He views himself as a legitimate leader for the region and is actively seeking alliances with Ruto’s critics to bolster political support. Should the anti-Ruto wave persist, the forthcoming elections could prove highly challenging for the Ruto Quartet as they contemplate their political futures.

In summary, the recent Cabinet appointments within Mt Kenya by President Ruto potentially jeopardize the political futures of notable leaders in the region. Faced with significant challenges, including declining support for Ruto and a struggling economy, these appointees may find their chances of re-election dwindling. Additionally, the ongoing anti-Ruto sentiment heightens the risks for any political aspirants affiliated with his administration, emphasizing the need for strategic outreach to regain public trust ahead of the 2027 elections.

Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke