Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has re-emerged at the centre of Kenya’s political tensions, drawing sharp criticism from allies of President William Ruto while receiving backing from sections of the opposition, as his continued political engagement fuels debate ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The former Head of State has come under increasing attack from leaders linked to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and segments of the Orange Democratic Movement, particularly after reaffirming his leadership of the Jubilee Party and supporting its presidential candidate, Fred Matiang’i.
Speaking during a public event in Narok County, Uhuru rejected calls to withdraw from politics, insisting he remains within his constitutional rights. “When I express my views on certain matters, I am told that having retired I should remain silent. I did not see such sentiments directed towards my predecessors. Although I am not seeking any elective seat, I remain firmly involved in politics as a member of Jubilee Party,” he said.
He further defended his position, stating: “Being a former President does not stop me from making clear what I believe in. It is my constitutional right to support whichever political formation I wish. Nobody should try to stop me from doing that since I am not barred by the Constitution,”
His remarks appear to have unsettled government allies. Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot criticised Uhuru’s political visibility, arguing that retired presidents earn respect through restraint. He contrasted Uhuru’s conduct with that of former leaders, including Mwai Kibaki and Daniel arap Moi. “When the late President Daniel arap Moi retired in 2002, he went to his farm in Kabarak and never bothered himself with the kind of silly monkey games that you are doing today in the Republic of Kenya,” said Cheruiyot.
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Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku also questioned Uhuru’s stance, suggesting he should clarify any grievances with President Ruto rather than engage in what he termed political attacks.
Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi went further, accusing the former President of jealousy. “We all know Uhuru is jealous of how Ruto has become successful in three years. We also know that the former President worked by hook or crook to ensure that Ruto does not assume office, but God was with Ruto, who rose from a humble background to the highest office,” said Sudi.
However, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua defended Uhuru, condemning the criticism from government allies and urging respect for his rights. “I would like to state that when the situation demands so, we will recall Uhuru from retirement to come and help us deal with this rogue regime. If he can assist in bringing good governance, so be it. I would like to tell our former President that he should not be intimidated,” said Gachagua.
Political analysts say Uhuru’s influence remains significant despite leaving office. Analyst Dismas Mokua described him as a key factor in the 2027 race, citing his shifting alliances and endorsements. “This explains why his political pronouncements continue to attract national attention. President Ruto, Kalonzo and former CS Dr Matiang’i are undertaking scenario and sensitivity analysis, with former President Uhuru viewed as a potential black swan event,” he said.
Mokua added that Uhuru represents a “known unknown” in Kenya’s political landscape, whose decisions could reshape electoral strategies. “The praise and attack strategy is meant to rattle the former President so that he moves into the known-knowns matrix. His position will enable presidential candidates to recalibrate their 2027 strategies,” he said.
The renewed political spotlight on Uhuru follows concerns raised by Jubilee Party officials over what they described as coordinated attacks from rivals. At the same time, claims of his involvement in broader opposition realignments have been disputed within political circles, reflecting the complex and evolving alliances ahead of the next election.
As tensions escalate, Uhuru’s role in active politics continues to divide opinion, placing him at the centre of an intensifying contest that could shape the country’s political direction in the coming years.
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