The political grapevine has been buzzing with rumors of a truce, but the camp of former President Uhuru Kenyatta is pushing back with a definitive "No."

Following a high-stakes encounter between Uhuru and President William Ruto in Ethiopia, speculation ran wild that the former Head of State was softening his stance. Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, a staunch ally, has moved swiftly to quash these narratives, asserting that Uhuru remains the spiritual and de facto leader of the resistance.

Diplomacy, Not Deal-Making

The meeting in Addis Ababa, captured in photos that showed the two leaders sharing a cordial moment, was interpreted by government spinners as a thawing of the icy relations that have defined the post-2022 landscape. Gakuya, however, insists that civility should not be mistaken for capitulation. "Uhuru is a statesman," Gakuya told reporters. "He will shake hands for the sake of Kenya’s image abroad, but his heart remains with the people who are suffering under this regime."

This clarification is crucial for the "United Opposition" brigade, which relies on Uhuru’s silent backing to maintain its legitimacy in the Mt. Kenya region. Any sign of him cutting a deal with Ruto would demoralize the base and fracture the fragile coalition that is currently regrouping for a 2027 assault.

• The Mt. Kenya Factor: The region is currently a battleground. Ruto is desperate to regain full control, while Uhuru’s loyalists are working overtime to paint the President as a betrayer of the region’s economic interests.
• The Jubilee Soul: The struggle for the soul of the Jubilee Party continues. Gakuya’s statement is a signal to the faction led by Jeremiah Kioni that the "boss" has not abandoned the ship.

The Silent General

Uhuru’s strategy of silence has proved to be louder than Ruto’s daily rallies. By remaining aloof, he allows the government’s failures to speak for themselves. The Ethiopia meeting was a momentary blip in this strategy, a necessary diplomatic chore.

For now, the message from the inner circle is clear: The son of Jomo is not for turning. He remains solidly in the opposition, watching, waiting, and letting the current administration accumulate its own baggage.

"Do not read too much into a photo," Gakuya warned. "The battle lines are drawn in permanent ink."