Uhuru Kenyatta Returns to Politics Under Ruto's Overture

President William Ruto recently met with his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta in Ichaweri, highlighting the continued prominence of the Kenyatta family within Kenya's political scene.

This meeting occurs despite the absence of any Kenyatta currently holding a senior government position, yet the family's legacy remains a powerful force influencing the nation's political discourse. During the 2022 presidential campaign, the Kenya Kwanza coalition, led by Ruto, actively sought to curtail the political influence of the Kenyatta family. Ruto positioned himself as the "Hustler" fighting against the established "Dynasty," which he characterized as symbols of entrenched political elitism, represented by the Kenyattas and the Odinga family.

This narrative gained traction, especially after Uhuru Kenyatta publicly endorsed Raila Odinga in preference to Ruto, increasing public scrutiny of the Kenyatta family. Post-election, Ruto's administration continued to focus on the Kenyatta name. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, in his inaugural address, claimed that the nation was "finally free" from Kenyatta's influence—an assertion that reverberated among other leaders in the Kenya Kwanza coalition.

The administration subsequently accused the Kenyattas of various misdeeds, including allegations of disinheriting Mau Mau freedom fighters and financing opposition demonstrations. The political tension escalated with incidents involving the Kenyatta family, including the reported theft of over 2,500 sheep from their Ruiru farm and a police raid on the residence of Uhuru's son amid claims of unlicensed firearms possession.

These confrontations, along with accusations of tax evasion directed at the Kenyatta family, further strained relations between the current and former administrations. Despite these adversities, the Kenyatta family's influence appears resilient. Recent developments, such as the inclusion of Uhuru's allies in Ruto's government and possibilities surrounding the appointment of Uhuru's brother, Muhoho, suggest a potential thaw in relationships.

This move has elicited mixed reactions from political analysts; some consider it a strategic gambit by Ruto to bolster support, while others remain sceptical about its lasting effects on the political landscape. The December 9 meeting between President William Ruto and his former boss was the second meeting within a month, following their earlier encounter at Bishop Peter Kimani Ndung'u's consecration in Embu.

During the meeting, Ruto expressed gratitude for the smooth transition of power after the 2022 elections and acknowledged Kenyatta's role in establishing foundations for the Bottom-Up Economic transformation agenda. According to a Statehouse statement, the leaders addressed the pending court matters affecting the IEBC's reconstitution and jointly endorsed Raila Odinga's candidature for the African Union Chair position.