Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s ambitious political strategy to keep opposition leader Raila Odinga at bay has spectacularly backfired, leaving him in a precarious position within the Kenyan political landscape. Gachagua’s attempts to ensure that Raila Odinga remained shut out from government and State House have not only faltered but also exposed him to potential political isolation.
In earlier statements, Gachagua was unequivocal about his intentions. “Nimepanga hiyo Ikulu, nimeieweka mitego kila corner, kila corner…na niko na watu wakionekana tu karibu napigiwa simu kwa sababu huwezi kubali mtu ameharibu serikali nne aingie ya tano,” he declared, emphasizing his resolve to thwart Raila’s potential influence in the government. This sentiment underscored his belief that Raila, having previously been a thorn in the side of several administrations, should not be allowed near the corridors of power again.
Despite these efforts, the political terrain has shifted dramatically. Gachagua’s elaborate plans to secure State House have not only been unsuccessful but have also been undermined by President William Ruto’s strategic pivot towards inclusivity. Ruto’s newfound openness towards Raila Odinga, marked by their recent political engagements and even private meetings, has caught Gachagua off guard. This change in dynamics is reminiscent of Gachagua’s earlier statements, where he described Raila as a formidable opponent, likening him to a “black snake” that instilled fear.
The pivotal moment came on February 26th when Raila Odinga and President Ruto met Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. The photos of this meeting, which surfaced online, were a significant blow to Gachagua and his supporters. The apparent camaraderie between Raila and Ruto seemed to dismantle the barriers Gachagua had tried to erect, revealing the fragile nature of his political strategies.
Gachagua’s earlier public statements, including his declaration that the government was the domain of “shareholders,” had positioned him as a hardline figure, resistant to any form of political compromise. This stance, however, has been at odds with Ruto’s more inclusive approach. While Ruto has embraced a broader coalition, even welcoming Raila, Gachagua has been left to navigate a political environment where his influence and strategies are increasingly marginalized.
The discord between Ruto and Gachagua has become more apparent as Gachagua’s actions have begun to diverge from the President’s evolving political strategies. For instance, Gachagua’s recent praise for Interior CS nominee Kithure Kindiki, despite their past disagreements, highlights a desperate bid to align with influential figures as his political position becomes more tenuous.
The ongoing political discourse hints at a potentially significant shift in the coming days. Gachagua’s failure to successfully block Raila from State House and the ensuing political maneuvers have set the stage for a reconfiguration of power dynamics within the government. This is not unlike the scenario in 2018, when Raila’s political pact with former President Uhuru Kenyatta led to a rift with then-Deputy President William Ruto.
As the political scene continues to evolve, Gachagua’s next steps will be crucial in determining his role and influence within the government. The failure of his traps for Raila Odinga serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and fluidity of political alliances in Kenya.
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