Deputy President Gachagua attended the ceremony as a representative of President William Ruto, delivering a message of congratulations from the Kenyan Head of State. Accompanying Gachagua were Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa and Kajiado Senator Seki Lenku.
Ramaphosa’s re-election follows a significant political development in South Africa, where the African National Congress (ANC) formed a coalition government with its longtime rival, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and other parties. This coalition aims to strengthen governance and address pressing national issues during Ramaphosa’s second term.
The encounter between Gachagua and Odinga at the inauguration comes amid a shifting political landscape in Kenya. Just a week prior, Gachagua had commented on the evolving relationship between President Ruto and Raila Odinga. He suggested that this relationship had influenced his decision to close ranks with former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Gachagua elaborated on the political dynamics, stating that he had faced criticism within the Kenya Kwanza government for choosing to collaborate with Uhuru. He defended his actions by noting that Uhuru’s primary ‘fault’ was his endorsement of Raila ahead of the 2022 elections. However, with President Ruto’s reconciliation with the ODM leader, Gachagua sees no reason to hold any grudges against the former president.
The presence of Gachagua and Raila together at an international event underscores the fluid nature of political alliances and relationships in Kenya. It also highlights the potential for unity and collaboration in the face of shared national and regional interests.
As South Africa embarks on a new chapter under President Ramaphosa’s leadership, the interactions and diplomatic gestures at his swearing-in ceremony may signal a hopeful trend of political cooperation and mutual respect among African leaders.
