President Ruto’s recent Cabinet appointments from Mt Kenya may have diminished the chances for these political figures to secure future elective office due to increasing anti-government sentiments. Former opponents of Ruto’s presidency, they now face significant challenges in revitalizing support, particularly in light of recent political developments, including Gachagua’s impeachment and unmet economic expectations.
President William Ruto’s recent appointments of Cabinet Secretaries from the Mt Kenya region may have jeopardized their prospects for future elective office due to rising anti-government sentiment. Notably, CSs Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), Lee Kinyanjui (Trade), William Kabogo (ICT), and former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi were sworn in recently, expected to mitigate fallout from Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment while stabilizing support for Ruto’s administration.
With seven out of twenty Cabinet positions filled by politicians from Central Kenya, the region’s share stands at 35 percent. However, the task of enhancing economic conditions while convincing Mt Kenya residents to endorse Ruto appears daunting, raising concerns about these appointees’ political futures.
The political landscape has shifted negatively since all four appointees previously opposed Ruto’s 2022 presidential bid. As Ruto’s influence wanes in the region, affiliates like Kinyanjui may face hostility when running for office, as seen with the declining support for his anticipated campaign against Susan Kihika for the Nakuru governorship.
Political commentator Gibson Wambugu labeled Kabogo and Kagwe as “spent cartridges,” suggesting their appointments may signal a retreat from active politics. He contends that the Cabinet roles serve more as retirement options rather than stepping stones to future elections, particularly in a recycling culture evident in Laikipia.
While Kinyanjui’s coalition with Ruto may not yield significant dividends due to widespread anti-Ruto sentiment, training under the Ubuntu Party as a fallback in 2022 indicates his awareness of shifting political allegiances. Likewise, Kagwe missed a chance for the Nyeri governorship due to his association with Ruto, diminishing his electoral prospects in an increasingly hostile environment.
The aftermath of Gachagua’s impeachment has left Ruto’s administration unpopular, with mixed reactions to his condolences across Mt Kenya counties. Former Nyeri Town MP articulated that this region has solidified its stance against supporting Ruto regardless of the candidate’s identity in the 2027 elections.
The current anti-Ruto wave underscores the challenges facing candidates aligned with Ruto in pursuing re-election. Political expert Dr. Charles Ng’ang’a observes that despite his impeachment, Gachagua maintains political relevance, rallying support and critiquing Ruto’s leadership in the region as he prepares for potential competition.
Gachagua’s strategic outreach, including alliances with critics like Martha Karua, attempts to solidify a united front against Ruto’s administration. If the anti-Ruto sentiment continues towards the 2027 elections, it could pose significant risks for the newly appointed quartet seeking political positions.
In summary, President Ruto’s Mt Kenya Cabinet appointees face mounting challenges in securing future electoral success amid rising discontent with his administration. Their historical opposition to Ruto’s presidency, coupled with declining popularity in the region, signals a precarious political landscape. As anti-Ruto sentiment persists, their chances of reelection may diminish, underscoring the complexities of regional politics in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
