Kanu Joins Kenya Kwanza as Gideon Moi Bows Out of Baringo Race

President William Ruto has secured a political alliance with Kanu leader Gideon Moi, signalling a shift in Rift Valley politics ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

The partnership, announced after a meeting at Moi's Kabarak residence, marks the formal inclusion of Kanu in the Kenya Kwanza administration. The announcement follows Moi’s unexpected withdrawal from the Baringo senatorial race, a decision attributed to Ruto’s promise to address key development issues in the region. 

Ruto confirmed that he had personally appealed to Moi to step aside, framing the move as part of a wider push to unite political leaders in pursuit of national development. Speaking to a crowd of over 3,000 supporters, Ruto highlighted the importance of Moi’s decision, noting the long-standing ties between his administration and the Moi family. 

“I sought Gideon’s support because I believe we must move Kenya beyond the limitations of the past,” Ruto said. 

Moi, for his part, explained that his withdrawal was based on Ruto’s commitment to complete stalled infrastructure projects, including roads and dams, in Baringo County. The political rapprochement was finalised earlier in the week during a meeting at State House, where both leaders discussed a framework for cooperation between Kanu and the ruling coalition. 

Moi’s withdrawal, which came just hours before his nomination submission, left his supporters unsettled, but the subsequent public meeting at Kabarak helped restore confidence. Ruto’s engagement with Moi follows similar talks with opposition figures Raila Odinga and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, as part of his broader strategy to unify Kenya’s political elite.