Former President Uhuru Kenyatta
By: Omaar Dee
As Kenya moves closer to the 2027 general elections, former President Uhuru Kenyatta has remained largely silent in the national political arena. However, political analysts and party insiders suggest that his behind-the-scenes manoeuvres are shaping the emerging opposition landscape. With significant personal wealth, a network of loyalists, and unfinished development projects in Mount Kenya, Uhuru is increasingly seen as a pivotal force in deciding who will challenge President William Ruto at the ballot.
Uhuru’s Unshaken Grip on Mount Kenya
Despite his 2022 retirement, Uhuru still commands considerable influence in Mount Kenya. Delegates at the Limuru III political summit in early 2025 reaffirmed his role as the region’s political kingpin. The Jubilee Party, under his guidance, is undergoing restructuring, with Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni leading the reorganisation of grassroots support bases.
Many in the region feel disillusioned with Kenya Kwanza’s performance, citing broken promises and stalled development. These sentiments have opened the door for Uhuru’s resurgence. Political strategists believe he is strategically waiting for the right time to make a decisive move, most likely through endorsing a candidate who aligns with his development agenda and political values.
The Legacy Question: Unfinished Projects and Political Leverage
During his tenure, Uhuru launched ambitious projects in infrastructure, health, education, and digitisation, most notably Huduma Namba, the Nairobi expressway, and expansion of technical training institutions. While some were completed, others stalled after the 2022 elections. With public discontent rising over these delays, Uhuru is using the promise of reviving unfinished projects as political capital.
Sources within Jubilee indicate that the party’s revival plan is tied to restoring development momentum in the region. Uhuru is reportedly keen on supporting a candidate who can guarantee the completion of his legacy initiatives while also appealing to national unity.
Fred Matiang’i: The Technocrat in Waiting
Fred Matiang’i has emerged as a strong contender for the opposition ticket. Though not officially endorsed, the former Interior Cabinet Secretary has been named in Jubilee’s internal strategy as a likely flagbearer. Matiang’i’s administrative track record under Uhuru’s government includes cleaning up the education sector, enforcing discipline in public service, and spearheading security reforms.
His candidacy is gaining quiet momentum, particularly in Central and Western Kenya. Jubilee officials point to his loyalty, competence, and ability to manage large national programmes, key traits that align with Uhuru’s leadership style. Matiang’i declared his presidential ambitions in May 2025 and has since begun grassroots tours, signalling his readiness to step into the national political ring.
Political analysts argue that Matiang’i’s technocratic appeal, coupled with Jubilee’s resources and Uhuru’s backing, positions him as a serious contender to face Ruto in 2027.
Kalonzo Musyoka: Experienced but Politically Limited
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has also declared interest in the presidency and is actively seeking to build alliances, including efforts to win over Mount Kenya voters. Kalonzo brings decades of political experience and commands a strong following in Eastern Kenya.
However, his prospects face significant hurdles. Jubilee insiders have expressed reservations about his assertiveness and leadership strength. His previous indecisiveness in past coalition talks and failure to take firm stands have raised doubts among potential supporters. Additionally, Kalonzo lacks solid backing in Mount Kenya, a critical voting bloc that remains under Uhuru’s influence.
Sources say Kalonzo’s attempt to form a coalition ticket with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua without involving Jubilee alienated him from Uhuru’s circle and triggered the party’s pivot toward Matiang’i.
Uhuru’s Strategic Silence and the Road Ahead
While Uhuru has not publicly endorsed any candidate, his strategic silence is seen as a calculated move. Political observers believe he is watching the field closely and will only speak when conditions are most favourable. The likelihood of his eventual support for Matiang’i remains high, given their past working relationship and alignment on governance priorities.
Jubilee’s resurgence, backed by Uhuru’s wealth and loyal base, is expected to play a key role in shaping the 2027 opposition strategy. Whether Matiang’i becomes the final pick or not, Uhuru’s influence will likely determine who carries the hopes of the opposition into the next election.
Uhuru Kenyatta may be absent from public rallies, but his political weight is being felt. With unfinished development projects, vast resources, and influence in a vote-rich region, he remains the hidden card in Kenya’s 2027 presidential race. As discussions centre around Fred Matiang’i and Kalonzo Musyoka, the final decision could rest with Uhuru, the man many still see as Mount Kenya’s political anchor.
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