President Ruto’s Cabinet appointments from Mt. Kenya may have undermined their electoral prospects due to increasing anti-government sentiment. Political analysts foresee significant challenges for these politicians as public sentiment towards Ruto diminishes. The ongoing challenges facing the Ruto administration will likely affect their standing in future elections, with potential implications for their careers.
President William Ruto’s recent appointments of Cabinet Secretaries from the Mt. Kenya region may have jeopardized their prospects for future electoral success amid growing anti-government sentiment. Appointees including CSs Mutahi Kagwe, Lee Kinyanjui, William Kabogo, and former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi were expected to unite the region after Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment. However, their political futures appear at risk, particularly if the economy does not improve.
With seven Cabinet Secretaries from Central Kenya making up 35 percent of the Cabinet, these appointments were seen as strategic. Nonetheless, political analysts warn that being associated with the unsatisfactory outcomes of the Ruto administration could negatively impact the careers of these veteran politicians, especially given their previous opposition to his 2022 presidential campaign.
Political commentator Gibson Wambugu criticized Kagwe and Kabogo as “spent cartridges” and provided a stark outlook regarding their elections in 2027, labeling the appointments as more of a retirement plan than a path forward. In Laikipia, the trend of established politicians seeking office continues to persist, as new entrants like Cate Waruguru vie for power following the current governor’s last term.
Commentators highlight Kinyanjui’s prior struggles with the electorate, attributing his political difficulties to the anti-Ruto wave present throughout Kenya. His previous attempt to distance himself from Jubilee only underscores the challenges he now faces due to his affiliation with Ruto’s government.
Furthermore, the unpopularity of the Ruto administration has been exacerbated by Gachagua’s impeachment, which has resulted in rejection of Ruto’s overtures from several counties in Mt. Kenya. Residents in Embu, Murang’a, and Nyandarua have largely dismissed Ruto’s engagement, expressing firm disregard for his leadership.
Dr. Charles Ng’ang’a of JKUAT suggests that despite Gachagua’s impeachment, he remains influential, rallying support and criticizing the government for perceived betrayal of Mt. Kenya’s interest. Gachagua is working to consolidate his political base with former allies, signaling a potential resurgence in forthcoming elections.
If the anti-Ruto sentiments persist leading up to 2027, candidates affiliated with his administration may find it increasingly challenging to secure re-election, mirroring the fate of those who previously aligned with former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
In summary, the recent appointments of Ruto’s Cabinet Secretaries from Mt. Kenya have cast doubt on their potential for future electoral success. With rising anti-government sentiment and economic difficulties contributing to discontent, their affiliation with Ruto’s administration could significantly hinder their political ambitions. The ongoing dynamics within Mt. Kenya suggest a complex and uncertain political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
