Uhuru Warns Mt Kenya Against Repeating 2022 Political Mistake

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged voters in Mt Kenya to avoid repeating what he described as a costly political mistake made in the 2022 General Election.

Speaking at the funeral of Mwalimu Jackson Karua, the father of former Justice Minister Martha Karua, in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, on Saturday, October 3, Uhuru also dismissed claims that he is financing opposition politicians or preparing to return to elective politics. The former president said his main concern was the political direction taken by the region. 

He recalled trying to persuade Mt Kenya voters in 2022 to support the Azimio la Umoja presidential ticket led by Raila Odinga and Martha Karua. Uhuru said he had believed the Odinga-Karua partnership would have taken the country in a different political direction. He urged residents to learn from the 2022 election and avoid making what he described as the same mistake again.

Although he did not directly name current political figures, his remarks came as parties and politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Uhuru also responded to claims by President William Ruto and some of his allies that he is acting as a political “sponsor” by funding opposition politicians and movements.

He rejected the claims and said he had no intention of seeking another elective position. The retired president said he was content with his current position and was not concerned by criticism directed at him.

His comments come amid competing efforts to shape Mt Kenya's political direction 

ahead of the 2027 elections. Although Uhuru retired from elective politics, his continued involvement in political discussions has made him a frequent target of criticism from sections of the Kenya Kwanza administration.

His political role has also changed within the Jubilee Party. Last month, he handed over the party leadership to former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i while retaining a senior advisory position as the party prepares for the next general election.

Claims that Uhuru is funding opposition activities have also been extended to movements outside established political parties. Critics have linked him to the Linda Mwananchi movement and other initiatives seeking to challenge the current administration. Uhuru has repeatedly rejected the “sponsor” label and has at times responded to it with humour.

The issue was raised again during the Kirinyaga funeral, where Nyandarua Senator and DCP Secretary General John Methu called on Uhuru to provide financial support to his party. Other politicians, including Mukisa Kituyi, also made light-hearted references to the controversy.

The funeral brought together several opposition and former government figures, including former Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang'i, former Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and DAK leader Eugene Wamalwa.