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Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's renewed political engagement and ex-Interior CS Fred Matiang'i's presidential bid are significantly influencing Kenya's political discourse and alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has re-entered active politics, signaling a potential realignment of forces ahead of the 2027 General Election. This move coincides with former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i's declaration of his presidential ambitions, with Kenyatta's Jubilee Party endorsing him as its flagbearer.
Kenyatta, who had maintained a relatively low profile since his retirement in September 2022, has recently engaged in heightened political activities, including meetings with Jubilee politicians and opposition leader Raila Odinga. This marks a departure from the tradition of past retired presidents, Daniel Moi and Mwai Kibaki, who largely withdrew from active politics. Analysts suggest Kenyatta's re-engagement sends a strong message regarding his preferred candidate for 2027, indicating he will not back President William Ruto.
The Kenyan political scene is characterized by shifting alliances and ethnic mobilization, with strategies for the 2027 elections already taking shape. The incumbent government coalition, led by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), faces internal suspicions, while the United Opposition appears to be grappling with internal dynamics and divergent visions.
Fred Matiang'i, whose political prominence grew significantly during his tenure in Kenyatta's administration, particularly as the 'super minister' overseeing various government programs, has officially declared his intention to run for president in 2027. His candidacy, backed by the Jubilee Party, introduces a new dynamic, especially in the vote-rich Mt. Kenya region, where he will likely contend with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for influence.
Kenya's Presidential Retirement Benefits Act 2003 stipulates that a retired president shall not hold office in any political party for more than six months after ceasing to hold office. While Kenyatta applied for and began receiving his retirement benefits in December 2022, he has not resigned from his leadership roles in the Jubilee Party and the Azimio La Umoja-One Kenya Coalition Party. This continued political involvement has sparked debate, with some arguing he has a constitutional right to participate in political discourse, while others believe he should maintain an elder statesman role.
Stakeholders are urging clarity on the timelines, costs, and safeguards surrounding these political developments. Uriri Member of Parliament Mark Nyamita suggested in September 2025 that Matiang'i was distancing himself from the united opposition coalition, citing remarks where Matiang'i reportedly dismissed fellow opposition leaders as “noise makers.” This indicates potential rifts within the opposition, with some members even labeling Matiang'i a “state project.”
The re-entry of former President Kenyatta into active politics and Matiang'i's presidential bid could lead to a highly competitive and potentially polarized political environment. A new political battle is anticipated between Kenyatta and Deputy President Gachagua for control of the Mt. Kenya vote, which is crucial for presidential success. The fragmentation within the opposition, as suggested by Nyamita, could further complicate the political landscape. Additionally, the spread of AI-driven misinformation remains a significant risk to electoral integrity.
Observers will be closely watching the evolving alliances, particularly within the Mt. Kenya region, and the strategies employed by various political actors to garner support. The role of former President Kenyatta in shaping the political narrative and the ability of Fred Matiang'i to build a formidable campaign will be critical. The impact of AI and digital disinformation on the electoral process will also require close monitoring.
The political developments echo past electoral cycles in Kenya, where coalition politics and ethnic mobilization have played significant roles. The debate surrounding retired presidents' involvement in politics has historical precedents, with varying approaches taken by past leaders.
