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Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's return to active politics has ignited a national debate, with analysts suggesting it could significantly influence public discourse and policy implementation. Stakeholders are calling for clarity on the implications of this move.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's re-entry into Kenya's political arena has become a focal point of national discussion, prompting varied reactions from political observers and the public. This development challenges the traditional post-presidency role often adopted by his predecessors, Mwai Kibaki and Daniel Arap Moi, who largely retreated from active political engagement after leaving office.
Kenyatta, who served as Kenya's fourth president from 2013 to 2022, has recently taken a more prominent role in his Jubilee party. His participation in the Jubilee party's National Delegates Convention on September 26, where he announced the party's preparations for the next general elections and its determination to field strong candidates, signaled his renewed political involvement. He also indicated plans for a nationwide 'meet the people' tour to engage directly with party supporters and local communities.
The debate surrounding Kenyatta's political resurgence intensified following his criticisms of the current Ruto administration's policies. This has led to accusations from figures like Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who suggest Kenyatta is undermining the government.
Historically, Kenyan presidents, upon handing over the instruments of power—the Constitution and a ceremonial sword—are expected to transition into a more private life, albeit with government support and privileges. While they retain the right to voice personal opinions on national issues, they are generally not expected to issue directives to the government or engage in political activities perceived to threaten national security.
The Kenyan Constitution, under Article 141(2), outlines the rules and restrictions for former presidents. A key provision states that a person cannot hold office as President for more than two terms. While the constitution does not explicitly bar former presidents from all political activity, the tradition has been one of reduced direct involvement. Former presidents are also not allowed to access State House without an invitation from the sitting Head of State.
Jubilee nominated MP Sabina Chege, speaking on September 30, stated that Kenyatta's return to active politics cannot be ignored, citing his continued respect in parts of the Mt Kenya region. She suggested that recent political shifts may have rekindled support for the former Head of State, despite the region not electing his preferred candidate in the 2022 general elections. Chege argued that dismissing Kenyatta's relevance based on the 2022 elections would be a mistake, asserting that circumstances have changed.
Conversely, leaders allied to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have dismissed Kenyatta's renewed political activity, insisting that Gachagua is the new kingpin of the Mt Kenya region.
Political analysts like Fanya Mambo Kinuthia and Barrack Muluka contend that Uhuru Kenyatta, being younger and more energetic than his predecessors at the time of their retirement, has a constitutional right to political participation. They draw parallels to former U.S. President Barack Obama's continued political involvement. However, critics argue that his active role could diminish his status as an elder statesman and peace envoy, a role he has undertaken for conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Northern Ethiopia.
Kenyatta's active political role could set a new precedent for former presidents in Kenya, potentially altering the established tradition of post-presidency conduct. This could lead to increased political competition and potentially strain relations between the current and former administrations. The involvement of a former head of state in active party politics might also influence public perception of the presidency as an institution, and its perceived neutrality after a term of office.
The full extent of Uhuru Kenyatta's planned political activities and their long-term impact on Kenya's political landscape remain to be seen. It is also unclear how the current administration will continue to respond to his increased visibility and commentary.
Observers will be closely watching Uhuru Kenyatta's planned 'meet the people' tours and his continued engagement within the Jubilee party. The reactions from both the ruling coalition and the opposition, as well as the public, will be key indicators of how this unprecedented political return will shape Kenya's future political discourse.
The roles of former presidents in other democracies, such as the United States, where ex-presidents often remain active in public life through foundations, advocacy, and commentary, offer a comparative perspective on the evolving role of retired heads of state.
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