Former Agriculture Cabinet Minister Kipruto Arap Kirwa has publicly expressed his disappointment and concern over President William Ruto's recent political engagements with KANU Chairman Gideon Moi. Speaking during a local TV discussion on Monday, October 13, 2025, Kirwa contended that the President's approach risks undermining Moi's political trajectory.

Kirwa stated, “I was not only shocked but also disappointed to see Gideon Moi with Ruto at State House,” highlighting his view that Moi is being sidelined. He further argued that President Ruto's strategy lacks transparency and a clear long-term vision for the KANU chairman.

Historical and Political Context

Gideon Moi, the youngest son of Kenya's second President Daniel Arap Moi, has been a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, serving as the Senator for Baringo County from 2013 to 2022 and as the Chairman of the Kenya African National Union (KANU) party. He inherited a significant political legacy and had previously harboured presidential ambitions, even vying for the presidency in the run-up to the 2022 General Election before supporting the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya flagbearer Raila Odinga.

Kipruto Arap Kirwa, a veteran politician, served as the 15th Minister of Agriculture between 2003 and 2008 in the Kibaki administration and was a Member of Parliament for Cherangany Constituency for nearly two decades. He has been known for his vocal stance on political matters and his advocacy for farmers' rights.

Laws/Policy and Governance

President Ruto has defended his engagements with various political leaders, including Gideon Moi, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, as part of a broader mission to unite Kenyans and accelerate national transformation. He has stated that these collaborations are focused on national interest and development, rather than political affiliations or personal gains.

Moi's decision to collaborate with the government was reportedly motivated by a desire to ensure the completion of key development projects in Baringo County and other regions. This engagement led to his withdrawal from the Baringo senatorial by-election, a move that surprised many of his supporters.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

President Ruto announced his collaboration with Moi and KANU grassroots delegates at Kabarak, Nakuru County, on Friday, October 10, 2025, following earlier talks at State House, Nairobi. KANU Secretary-General George Wainaina confirmed the party's readiness to work with the current administration.

However, the alliance has drawn criticism from some quarters, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused President Ruto of double standards in his calls for unity. President Ruto, in turn, dismissed these criticisms, reiterating his commitment to inclusive leadership and consensus-building on national development priorities.

Evidence/Data Box

• October 9, 2025: KANU National Chairman Gideon Moi withdraws from the Baringo Senatorial by-election after meetings with President William Ruto.
• October 10, 2025: President William Ruto meets KANU grassroots delegates at Kabarak, Nakuru County, where Gideon Moi publicly agrees to collaborate with the government.
• October 13, 2025: Former Agriculture Cabinet Minister Kipruto Arap Kirwa criticises President Ruto's engagement with Gideon Moi on a local TV station.

Risks/Implications

The political realignment involving Gideon Moi and President Ruto has sparked varied reactions and raises questions about its implications for regional and national politics. While President Ruto frames it as a move towards national unity and development, critics like Kirwa view it as potentially undermining Moi's political standing. The withdrawal from the Baringo senatorial race, a seat Moi previously held, has left some of his supporters disillusioned.

Unknowns and Controversies

The long-term impact of this alliance on Gideon Moi's political future and KANU's role in the broader political landscape remains uncertain. While President Ruto emphasizes a focus on national development, the political motivations and potential benefits for all parties involved are subject to ongoing analysis and speculation.

Timeline and Next Steps

The recent engagements between President Ruto and Gideon Moi occurred in early October 2025, culminating in Moi's withdrawal from the Baringo senatorial by-election and a public agreement to collaborate. The by-election was scheduled for November 27, 2025.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching how the collaboration between KANU and the government unfolds, particularly regarding the promised development projects in Baringo County and the extent of KANU's integration into the broader government agenda. The political dynamics within the Rift Valley and the reactions of various political factions to this new alliance will also be key areas of focus.