President William Ruto’s recent cabinet appointees from Mt. Kenya may have compromised their electoral chances amid rising anti-government sentiment in the region. With significant discontent towards Ruto and previous political affiliations against him, the appointees now face challenges in garnering support as the 2027 elections loom. Analysts predict a detrimental impact on their political careers if economic conditions do not improve.
Recent cabinet appointments by President William Ruto have potentially jeopardized the political futures of his appointees from Mt. Kenya amid rising anti-government sentiments in the region. Key figures such as CSs Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), Lee Kinyanjui (Trade), and William Kabogo (ICT), along with former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi, entered office amidst expectations to mend relations with a rebellious electorate following Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment.
With Mt. Kenya occupying 35 percent of the cabinet, the newly appointed officials face the challenging task of revitalizing the local economy to garner support for Ruto’s administration. However, their past opposition to Ruto’s presidential bid in 2022 raises concerns about their acceptance in an increasingly disenchanted region, where loyalty to Ruto is declining.
For instance, Kinyanjui’s prospects of reclaiming his governor seat from Susan Kihika have been complicated by internal party dynamics and growing dissension regarding Kihika’s governance, which has come under scrutiny. Political analysts suggest that Kinyanjui and his colleagues might hinder their future candidacies due to their affiliations with an unpopular administration especially if conditions do not improve.
Gibson Wambugu, a political commentator, expressed skepticism regarding the appointees’ future electoral viability, stating that the appointments may simply serve as a comfortable retirement rather than a pathway back to political power. Furthermore, he emphasized that local voters seem determined to reject candidates closely linked to Ruto in the upcoming election.
In context, Dennis Mwangi highlighted Kinyanjui’s previous attempts to secure support through alternative political channels, a strategy that ultimately faltered. His potential for a gubernatorial run appears diminished due to his connection with Ruto amid rising local discontent.
Others, such as the former Nyeri Town MP, echo sentiments that the Mt. Kenya electorate is firm in their decisions regarding the upcoming 2027 elections, indicating a general disinterest in supporting Ruto. This prevailing hostility could significantly diminish the chances of any Kenya Kwanza candidates in securing re-election.
Dr. Charles Ng’ang’a from JKUAT noted that despite his impeachment, Gachagua remains active in local politics, positioning himself as a leader with the region’s best interests at heart. His efforts to consolidate support and align with Ruto’s critics suggest a growing movement against the current administration and a potential pathway for political resurgence.
In summary, the cabinet appointments of prominent Mt. Kenya politicians by President Ruto could detrimentally impact their prospects for returning to elective office. The increasing discontent within the region, coupled with their previous opposition to Ruto, poses a significant challenge as the 2027 elections approach. The political landscape in Mt. Kenya is evolving, and candidates associated with an unpopular administration are likely to face formidable obstacles in their electoral endeavors.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
