[Deputy President William Ruto (left) in a past function. A political scientist contends that the decision by KANU to back President Kenyatta is a blow to the DP. Photo/Hivisasa.com]
The decision by KANU to endorse President Uhuru’s re-election would be detrimental for his Deputy, William Ruto’s 2022 presidential ambitions, says political analyst Dismas Mokua.
While the independence party resolved to work with Jubilee after years of differences, however, it is not yet clear how it will benefit should Kenyatta get reelected in August.
But Mokua says the move should worry Ruto given the influence of Baringo senator Gideon Moi, who has also hinted of running for presidency despite the two coming from Rift Valley region.
“Kenyatta just played safe because he doesn’t want to lose the Rift Valley voting block. Moi’s influence was bit dangerous for his re-election.
“But this will be detrimental for Ruto given that should Kenyatta win, he will have nothing to lose. The two gentlemen will have a fierce political rivalry as party of 2022 succession politics,” Mokua said.
Moi has been critical of DP Ruto’s style of leadership and has often taken a swipe at him in public functions.
Kenyatta, who is very close to the two, has often kept distance in the political battle between the two and last week, he approached Moi for support.