Uhuru hits back at Ruto: Kenyans will choose their president in 2027

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta arriving at the late Kijana Wamalwa's home in Kitale. [Osinde Obare, Standard]

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has said Kenyans will have the final say on who will lead the country after the 2027 General Election, insisting he has no interest in returning to active politics.

Speaking on Sunday during the memorial service for former Vice-President Michael Kijana Wamalwa in Kitale, Uhuru said voters would be free to choose whichever candidate they want as president.

The former President made the remarks while listing political leaders, prompting cheers from the crowd when he mentioned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

"Wakenya wana haki ya kujichagulia viongozi wanaowapenda. Kama wanataka Kalonzo ni Kalonzo, wakisema wanataka Ruto, ni Ruto, wakisema wanataka Matiang'i ni Matiang'i, na wakisema wanataka SIfuna, ni Sifuna," Uhuru stated.

Uhuru jokingly cautioned the crowd against fuelling claims that he was sponsoring Sifuna or the Linda Mwananchi movement.

“Jameni chungeni, sitaki kuitwa sponsor,” Uhuru said, drawing laughter from the audience.

His remarks came amid claims by President William Ruto and his allies that Uhuru is financing opposition politicians seeking to challenge the President's bid for re-election in 2027.

On his part, Sifuna has denied the allegations, maintaining that the movement is funded through contributions and support from ordinary Kenyans and other well-wishers.

"Yule jamaa amebeba akili yote ya Kenya aliulizwa swali mboga sana, atoe evidence Uhuru ndio sponsor ya upinzani akasema hata yeye alisoma kwa gazeti…na anadai sisi ndio mafala," Sifuna stated earlier on his social media accounts.

Uhuru also launched 'My Country First,' a book honouring the late Michael Kijana Wamalwa. [Osinde Obare, Standard]