Former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday, November 7, 2025, made a decisive reentry into Kenya's political arena, publicly endorsing former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang'i's presidential bid while issuing a stern warning to his Jubilee Party officials to cease all political insults against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The move, made during a Jubilee Party grassroots meeting in Murang'a County, is being interpreted by analysts as a calculated strategy to reshape the political landscape of the Mt. Kenya region and unify a fractured opposition.

Addressing party delegates at the Thika Greens resort, Mr. Kenyatta was unequivocal in his support for Dr. Matiang'i, who was formally named Jubilee's deputy party leader and presidential candidate in late October 2025. "I have worked with Matiang'i, and I know his potential. His achievements during our administration are visible," Kenyatta stated, describing the former CS as a "progressive and transformative worker" that Kenya needs. He clarified that his support was based on competence and not personal loyalty, noting, "I have never been to his home." Dr. Matiang'i, who was present, pledged to continue the former president's legacy if elected.

A Rebuke Against Divisive Politics

In the same address, the former Head of State strongly condemned the growing trend of vitriolic attacks within his party, specifically highlighting insults directed at Mr. Gachagua. "I'm saddened to see people on social media who pretend to defend the party by insulting Rigathi Gachagua and others. I don't want that nonsense in my party," Kenyatta declared. He issued a direct and public warning to Jubilee's Secretary-General, Jeremiah Kioni, who has been a vocal critic of Gachagua. "You've heard me, Kioni... If I see anyone continuing with the insults, I will not hesitate to show them the door," he affirmed, threatening expulsion for any member who defies the directive.

This public defence is particularly noteworthy given the past political rivalry between Kenyatta and Gachagua. Analysts suggest it may be a strategic move to quell internal divisions within the Mt. Kenya region, a critical voting bloc, and potentially pave the way for a future political rapprochement. The call for respectful, policy-based politics comes amidst rising tensions within the broader "United Opposition," where friction between factions allied to Gachagua and Matiang'i has become apparent.

Implications for Kenya's 2027 Political Chessboard

Mr. Kenyatta's intervention is a clear signal of his intention to remain a pivotal player in shaping his succession and influencing the 2027 General Election. Having backed Raila Odinga unsuccessfully in 2022, his new strategy appears to be a two-pronged approach: consolidating his home turf by appealing for unity and respect, while simultaneously promoting a candidate he views as a capable technocrat. Dr. Matiang'i, often dubbed a "super CS" during his tenure for his no-nonsense approach, officially declared his presidential ambitions on the Jubilee ticket in early October 2025.

The endorsement positions Dr. Matiang'i as a key contender within the opposition coalition, which also includes figures like Kalonzo Musyoka and Eugene Wamalwa. However, the internal dynamics remain complex. In September and October 2025, reports emerged of friction between Gachagua and Matiang'i over the structure and leadership of the opposition, with Gachagua favouring grassroots mobilization through his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) and dismissing "boardroom negotiations." Mr. Kioni had previously accused Gachagua of attempting to intimidate Matiang'i and secretly working with President William Ruto's administration, claims Gachagua has denied.

As the nation looks towards 2027, the former president's actions in Murang'a have reignited the political discourse. His efforts to enforce party discipline, defend a former rival, and champion his chosen successor have introduced a new layer of complexity and intrigue. The ability of the United Opposition to manage these internal realignments and present a cohesive front will be critical in its quest to challenge the ruling administration.