The Petition to Bar the Deputy President from Running for President: Implications and Hidden Agendas

 Drama often defines Kenyan politics, but recent developments have introduced a new level of intrigue. A petition has been filed in the National Assembly proposing a law to bar the Deputy President from contesting the presidency immediately after their term ends. If passed, this would disqualify Rigathi Gachagua from vying in the 2027 presidential elections.

To fully grasp the gravity of this move, let’s break it down:

1. A Calculated Move:

Someone has seen a potential threat in Gachagua’s candidacy—something explosive that the public might not yet grasp.

2. Government Involvement Suspected:

Many believe this petition has the fingerprints of the UDA or Kenya Kwanza government. Whether directly or indirectly sponsored, it suggests escalating tensions within the ruling coalition.

3. Uncertain Parliamentary Future:

Even if this petition becomes a motion in Parliament, it may not succeed. Unlike the 2023 Finance Bill, political dynamics have shifted. Gachagua has built a solid base of loyal MPs and knows how to maneuver through parliamentary politics, whether through financial incentives or strategic alliances.

Now, let’s consider the broader implications of Gachagua running for president in 2027:

Mount Kenya Factor:

If Gachagua becomes a candidate, he would represent Mount Kenya, a region with significant voting power. Even if he secures just half of the region's votes, it could destabilize plans for election rigging, as rigging relies on predictable outcomes with fewer strong candidates.

Impact on Ruto’s Strategy:

If Mount Kenya rejects Gachagua en masse, those votes are unlikely to go to Ruto, introducing further complications. Ruto’s 2022 success relied on projecting Mount Kenya votes; a strong candidate from the region would make such claims harder to justify.

The petition’s true objective seems clear: preventing Gachagua’s candidacy to preserve Ruto’s political dominance. However, this raises questions about its constitutionality. Kenya’s constitution guarantees every citizen the right to vie for any position. Even if Parliament passes this law, it’s likely to face legal challenges and could be struck down.

Yet, the timing and nature of this move hint at the involvement of external forces—possibly international fixers skilled at orchestrating political outcomes. These players might be seeking to manipulate Kenya’s political landscape, much like the controversial events surrounding the 2022 elections.

In conclusion, this petition reflects deep divisions and high-stakes maneuvering within Kenya’s political elite. As the drama unfolds, it’s crucial for Kenyans to remain vigilant and informed about these developments.