Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has announced his intention to run for president, signalling a bold return to the political arena just months after his controversial ouster from the Cabinet.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Kuria’s declaration adds a new layer of intrigue to the political landscape, particularly as it follows a public exchange with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, hinting at a potential reconciliation between the two former rivals.
Kuria, known for his fiery rhetoric and unyielding stance, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share his aspirations.
Responding to a message from Gachagua, who urged him to remain patient and trust in divine timing, Kuria declared his belief that he would become the kingpin of the Mt Kenya region and ascend to the presidency.
“I strongly trust that [God] will make me the current Mt Kenya kingpin and the 6th President of the Republic of Kenya,” Kuria stated, showcasing his unwavering confidence.
This surprising move comes after a tumultuous period marked by Kuria’s outspoken criticism of Gachagua. The two have been at odds, particularly over Gachagua’s ‘one-man-one-shilling-one-vote’ proposal and his public attacks on National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji.
Kuria had been vocal in his disapproval of Gachagua’s leadership style, accusing him of dishonesty and manipulation, particularly in relation to the controversial Finance Bill 2024.
Kuria’s critique of Gachagua escalated during the violent anti-finance bill protests that rocked the country in June.
As public anger over the bill, which proposed VAT increases on basic goods like milk and bread, boiled over into deadly clashes, Kuria did not mince words. He directly blamed Gachagua for endorsing the bill in its original form, calling him a “lying, dishonourable man” on social media.
Gachagua, in turn, placed the blame for the bill’s unpopularity on Haji, accusing the NIS boss of failing to provide accurate intelligence that could have averted the crisis.
The Deputy President’s calls for Haji’s resignation were seen as an attempt to deflect criticism from himself and the administration. “Haji must take responsibility for the deaths and the breach of Parliament. He must resign,” Gachagua stated, further intensifying the already charged political atmosphere.
Kuria’s decision to announce his presidential ambitions comes as DP Gachagua is being pressured in the Kenya Kwanza camp, leading to a tumultuous stay in the camp. Some argue that Gachagua is facing hurdles within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) over his purported intent to inherent the presidency from President Ruto.
By positioning himself as a challenger to both Gachagua and President Ruto, Kuria is tapping into a growing sense of frustration among Kenyans, particularly over the handling of the Finance Bill and the subsequent protests.
However, the political implications of Kuria’s announcement are complex. On one hand, it signals a potential realignment within the Mt Kenya region, as Kuria seeks to position himself as the new leader of a region that has historically played a crucial role in Kenya’s presidential elections.
On the other hand, it raises questions about the future of his relationship with Gachagua, who has been a dominant figure in the region’s politics…CONTINUE READING>>
