Home Politics Uhuru-Raila Kilifi Meeting Sparks Speculation on Ruto Alliance

Uhuru-Raila Kilifi Meeting Sparks Speculation on Ruto Alliance

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta met ODM leader Raila Odinga in Kilifi, raising questions about Raila's alliance with President William Ruto.
IMAGE/COURTESY
  • Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta met ODM leader Raila Odinga in Kilifi, raising questions about Raila’s alliance with President William Ruto.
  • Viral photos show Uhuru with Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro and Raila’s ally David Murathe.
  • Details of the meeting remain undisclosed, but analysts believe it focused on Raila’s anticipated deal with Ruto.
  • Political analyst Herman Manyora suggests Uhuru may be uncomfortable with Raila’s cooperation with Ruto.
  • Raila is consulting his supporters before making a final decision on his alliance with Ruto.

A private meeting between retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga in Kilifi on Monday has ignited political speculation, with many wondering about the future of Raila’s planned cooperation with President William Ruto.

A viral photo circulating on social media shows Uhuru walking with Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro. Another image captures Raila in deep conversation with Uhuru’s close ally David Murathe, further fueling speculation about the nature of their discussions.

While details remain unclear, political observers suggest that the meeting may have focused on Raila’s potential handshake with Ruto, a move that would reshape Kenya’s political landscape.

Uhuru’s Role in Raila-Ruto Alliance

Could Uhuru be seeking a role in the new pact, or was he advising Raila against working with Ruto?

Political analyst Herman Manyora dismisses claims that Uhuru would push for a government position, arguing that the former president has nothing to gain from such a deal.

“Uhuru is beyond such things. What would he want? Money? Power? He already has everything he needs. The constitution doesn’t allow him to seek more power, and he doesn’t even need protection—the Kenyatta name is enough,” said Manyora.

However, Manyora suggests that Uhuru may be uneasy about Raila’s growing ties with Ruto.

“It is possible that Uhuru has never been happy with Raila working with Ruto. I suspect heavily that Uhuru is not comfortable with this alliance. He would rather see Raila make one more attempt at the presidency with his support,” he added.

Raila’s Public Consultation Before Decision

In the past week, Raila has been on a regional tour in Nyanza and the Coast, engaging with his supporters on whether to proceed with his cooperation with Ruto or abandon the plan altogether.

He is expected to make a major announcement in the coming weeks, a decision that could define the country’s political future.