Moses Kuria, the former Trade and Public Service Cabinet Secretary and now senior economic advisor to President William Ruto, has hinted at the formation of a new political movement that could redefine Kenya’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election. During a thanksgiving service in Homa Bay County, Kuria spoke confidently, suggesting the creation of a coalition he described as a “new nationalist movement.” He compared the anticipated coalition to Kenya’s 2002 Rainbow Coalition, a monumental political force that effectively ended President Daniel arap Moi’s 24-year rule. According to Kuria, this new alliance could become a game-changer in the upcoming elections.
Kuria’s comments arrive at a crucial moment when key alliances are forming and political relationships are shifting, especially between President Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, led by Raila Odinga. These developments have come as Ruto’s government, which originally drew strength from the Kenya Kwanza coalition, begins to rethink its strategic direction for 2027. With former Prime Minister Raila Odinga eyeing a new role as the African Union Commission chairperson, speculation is growing that he may support Ruto’s reelection bid, setting the stage for an alliance that could shift Kenya’s political tides.
Kuria’s Vision for 2027
Speaking with the confidence that has characterized his political career, Kuria indicated that he sees an opportunity for a “new baby on the block” to energize Ruto’s reelection campaign. His remarks reflect his ambition to shape a political vehicle that could rally a cross-section of Kenyan voters under a unifying ideology. “In 2027, a new nationalist movement, same as the 2002 Rainbow movement, is loading,” Kuria stated, adding that those with political insight should join early to avoid being left out. Kuria, known for his calculated moves, emphasized that his political decisions are carefully measured, adding, “In politics, I don’t make mistakes.”
Kuria’s remarks suggest he believes the new alliance can resonate with a broad base of voters, consolidating support for Ruto and counteracting the opposition. However, this potential coalition faces significant questions about its form and function—whether it will be a formal merger of parties or a looser alliance resembling previous broad-based coalitions.
UDA and ODM’s Growing Proximity
In recent months, political observers have noted increased cooperation between Ruto’s UDA and Raila’s ODM. Raila’s possible support for Ruto’s bid in 2027 has raised speculation about an alliance that could surprise voters. Raila, a seasoned statesman and leader of Kenya’s opposition for decades, has shown willingness to work with Ruto despite their historic rivalry. Notably, his attendance at Governor Gladys Wanga’s thanksgiving service, where Kuria made his remarks, demonstrated the openness of ODM to bridging divides with Kenya Kwanza figures.
This willingness for collaboration was further underlined by the presence of other UDA members, including former Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa, suggesting that alliances once thought improbable may be in the works. By inviting ODM leaders and allies, President Ruto’s camp could be signaling an interest in forging a formidable coalition that might transcend traditional party lines.
Gachagua and the Opposition Recalibrate
Meanwhile, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, recently ousted in a controversial impeachment, is not sitting idle. Reports indicate that Gachagua is exploring alliances with other political heavyweights, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) chief Eugene Wamalwa. This alliance could pose a potential challenge to Ruto’s reelection strategy, as Gachagua’s influence within the central region of Kenya remains strong, especially among Mount Kenya voters.
If Gachagua teams up with Musyoka and Wamalwa, the political calculus could shift, with multiple influential figures potentially combining forces against Ruto’s coalition. The implications of this possible alliance could be vast, as it would likely draw supporters from regions traditionally sympathetic to these leaders, providing a formidable challenge to Ruto’s base.
The Broader Implications of a New Alliance
Kuria’s mention of a coalition with a “nationalist” approach echoes historical parallels with the 2002 National Rainbow Coalition (Narc) that swept into power by uniting diverse political factions. For President Ruto, forming a similar alliance could allow him to avoid internal divisions that often arise within a single-party dominance and instead foster unity under a broad-based, ideologically aligned coalition. Currently, the UDA has encouraged affiliate parties within the Kenya Kwanza alliance to consolidate, with Musalia Mudavadi’s ANC party having already resolved to fold into the larger coalition.
As Kenya gears up for the 2027 elections, the political stage is already set for a high-stakes contest filled with unexpected alliances and breakaways. While Moses Kuria’s statements remain speculative, they reflect the fluid nature of Kenyan politics, where allegiances can shift as quickly as they are forged. The formation of a new “nationalist movement,” if realized, could drastically reshape the 2027 elections and provide Ruto with a strategic advantage. However, much depends on whether the promises of unity hold in a political environment known for shifting loyalties and intense rivalry.
