Kenya’s political scene could witness another unexpected turn as the country moves closer to the 2027 General Election, with former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria raising the possibility of President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua finding common ground again.
Kuria’s remarks have drawn attention because of the bitter political differences that pushed Ruto and Gachagua apart after they came to power together in 2022. Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Sunday, August 9, Kuria suggested that the political situation between the two could change despite everything that has happened since their fallout.
The former Cabinet Secretary went as far as challenging Gachagua to make a public declaration that he has no political agreement with Ruto and will not enter into one before the 2027 elections. Kuria said Gachagua should make the declaration before a PCEA church moderator while holding a Bible.
“I’ve asked him yesterday to go to the moderator of the PCEA church. Take the Bible and say to the world, one, that he doesn’t have a deal currently with William Ruto. And two, that he’s not going to have one before 2027,” Kuria said.
Kuria’s argument is based on his view that political alliances in Kenya can change quickly as elections approach. Leaders who appear to be opponents at one point can sometimes find themselves working together when political interests change.
He also made reference to possible movements by the two leaders outside the country in September. Kuria claimed that Gachagua was preparing for a trip to the United States during the month and that Ruto would also be in the US around the same period. He appeared to suggest that the timing could create an opportunity for the two politicians to hold discussions.
“Rigathi is preparing for an overseas trip in September in the US. Ruto will be there in September. I don’t know what I’m saying, but watch this space,” he said.
There has been no confirmed announcement of a meeting or political agreement between Ruto and Gachagua based on Kuria’s remarks. Gachagua has previously rejected suggestions that he could return to Ruto’s political camp and has continued to participate in opposition politics.
The relationship between the two leaders changed dramatically after their election victory in 2022. Ruto and Gachagua had campaigned together under the Kenya Kwanza ticket, with Gachagua becoming Deputy President after Ruto won the presidency. Their working relationship later deteriorated as disagreements emerged within the administration.
Gachagua was eventually removed from office following an impeachment process in Parliament. The National Assembly passed the impeachment motion before the Senate upheld his removal, bringing his time as Deputy President to an end.
The former Deputy President challenged his removal in court, arguing that the process was unlawful. The High Court later ruled that his impeachment was valid, although Gachagua has appealed the decision and the matter remains part of the legal process.
Politically, however, Gachagua has not stepped away from the national debate. As the leader of the Democracy of Citizens Party, he has remained involved in efforts to build a political alliance capable of challenging Ruto in 2027.
He has also worked with other opposition figures who have been calling for a united front ahead of the election. Their objective is to avoid splitting the opposition vote and to present a strong candidate against Ruto.
Kuria’s latest remarks therefore come at a sensitive moment. With the 2027 election still ahead, political leaders have enough time to change positions, form new partnerships and abandon existing alliances.
Whether Ruto and Gachagua could actually work together again remains uncertain, but Kuria’s comments have ensured that the possibility is now part of the wider political conversation.
