Popular political pundit Mutahi Ngunyi believes president Uhuru Kenyatta might shock the nation by endorsing Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i as his successor.
In October, a furious Uhuru, while touring Nyeri, said his choice for 2022 might surprise many Kenyans despite his previous pledge to support Deputy President William Ruto.
"Don't take my silence as a sign of cowardice. When that time comes, I will shock many of you. For now let's work to better the lives of Kenyans," he said.
Lately, the president's handlers led by Jubilee Vice Chair David Murathe, have openly dismissed Ruto's chances, a move that has created cracks within the ruling party.
And in his commentary, Ngunyi said Matiang'i could emerge favourite due to his competence and the fact that he comes from a politically neutral Gusii community.
"Matiang'i could be the surprise pick by Uhuru. His competence is acceptable across the board and he comes from a politically neutral community of Abagusii. He will neutralize the ethnic tensions," he said.
Last month, Matiang'i was openly embroiled in a spat with Ruto, further fuelling speculations about their deteriorating relationship. He has since reconciled with Raila Odinga, a former critic of Jubilee government.
After 2017 elections, Matiang'i briefly worked with Ruto and even traversed the larger Gusii region where local leaders endorsed him to be Ruto's running mate in 2022.
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