Ruto-Moi handshake: Why Rift Valley is shaken

Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi and President William Ruto after a meeting at State House, Nairobi, on October 9, 2025. [PCS] Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi's decision to work with President William Ruto is expected to significantly reshape Kenya's political landscape-particularly in the Rift Valley region, where both leaders hail from. The two have a political history, having worked closely since 2002 when Gideon was elected MP for Baringo Central. They remained in Kanu alongside Uhuru Kenyatta, who later succeeded former President Daniel arap Moi as party leader. The alliance between the two prominent Rift Valley leaders has not only redefined political dynamics in the region but could also have implications on the national political scene as the country heads into the 2027 elections. Political analysts say the move has come as a surprise to many, especially among Ruto's close allies in the Rift Valley, who did not anticipate a reconciliation between the two leaders. Among senior government officials who have welcomed the new alliance is Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, a longtime political associate of both Ruto and Gideon. "The working relationship between President Ruto and Gideon Moi should inspire other political leaders to cooperate with the government for the sake of national unity," said Mudavadi. Kilgoris MP Julius Sunkuli also praised the move. "Gideon has made a bold decision, and we welcome it. Our only concern as Kanu members is that we were not consulted or informed early enough," said Sunkuli. Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren said the development is welcome news for the people of Baringo. Political unity "This unity is what the people want. It brings together leaders they respect and support," he said. Political analyst Prof Macharia Munene told The Standard that Gideon's entry into Ruto's camp will cement political unity in the Rift Valley. "I believe Gideon is looking at the bigger picture. He may be strategically positioning himself for future political ambitions," said Prof Munene. He added that the development is unlikely to disrupt the influence of Ruto's key allies such as Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, or Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, who will continue playing central roles in Ruto's inner circle. "Gideon is likely eyeing a more significant national role in the future, and aligning with Ruto could be part of that long-term strategy," Prof Munene added. Political risk analyst Dismus Mokua described the alliance as a "game-changer", noting that Gideon's decision not to run for the Baringo Senate seat averted what could have been a major political upset for Ruto in his home turf. "Had Gideon contested and won the Baringo Senate seat, it would have emboldened the opposition and exposed Ruto's vulnerability ahead of 2027," Mokua observed. He argued that Gideon's move neutralises the "dynasty versus hustler" narrative and forces the President to change his 2027 re-election messaging. "If Gideon Moi crafts and delivers a compelling strategic narrative, he could become a serious contender and even a de facto successor to Ruto in the Rift Valley," Mokua said. He added that Rift Valley leaders aligned to the President will now have to view Gideon through a new lens, given his political pedigree, national stature, and financial resources. Gideon had set his sights on reclaiming the Baringo Senate seat, and was widely expected to win. Addressing Kanu supporters in Kabarak last weekend, Ruto said he reached out to Gideon and requested him to drop his senatorial ambitions. "I am the one who approached Gideon and asked him to shelve his bid for the Baringo Senate seat. I urged him to focus on broader issues that will help us develop the country. Together, we can take Kenya to the next level," said Ruto.

Ruto-Moi handshake: Why Rift Valley is shaken

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