In a rare gesture of political rapprochement, President William Ruto on Friday, October 10, visited KANU Chairman Gideon Moi at the family’s iconic Kabarak home in Nakuru County, signalling what observers say could be the beginning of a major political realignment within the Rift Valley.
The visit, officially described as a grassroots consultation, carried unmistakable political undertones, coming at a time when President Ruto’s administration has been pushing to consolidate national unity and expand its governing coalition.
The closed-door talks, attended by senior government officials, KANU representatives, and local leaders from Nakuru and Baringo counties, were later described by both camps as “constructive” and “forward-looking.”
Calls for Unity and Shared Purpose
Speaking after the meeting, Gideon Moi underscored the need for healing past political rifts and fostering a spirit of collaboration across party lines.
“We’ve elected to pursue the path of unity and shared purpose at this crucial point in our nation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the people of Baringo for their support and for granting us the chance to move beyond our differences and mold a cohesive and prosperous nation,” Moi stated.
He added that Kenya’s progress depended on togetherness, saying, “Our country needs unity more than ever. This is the time to look forward and work together for the common good of all Kenyans.”
Ruto Welcomes KANU Cooperation
President Ruto echoed the sentiment, framing the meeting as part of a broader push for political cooperation and national cohesion.
“The necessity of national unity demands that all of us rise above that which divides us so that we work together on the transformation agenda that is urgent in our country,” he said.
“We must put aside politics that cause division and become partners in the national endeavour to make Kenya a prosperous country that works for all citizens.”
Ruto later revealed that KANU, under Moi’s leadership, had agreed to collaborate with the Kenya Kwanza government in addressing national challenges.
“Attended a KANU grassroots meeting at Kabarak, Nakuru County, where the party agreed to work with Kenya Kwanza under the broad-based government. Glad that KANU, under the leadership of Chairman Gideon Moi, will work with us to address the challenges facing our country,” Ruto wrote on social media after the meeting.
Moi Withdraws From Baringo Senate Race
The Kabarak meeting came just days after KANU had confirmed that Moi would vie for the Baringo Senatorial seat in the upcoming by-election — a race that was expected to mark his political comeback after his 2022 loss.
However, in a swift turn of events, KANU Secretary General George Wainaina announced that Moi had withdrawn from the contest, citing the party’s decision to align with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Sources within KANU revealed that the decision followed a private meeting earlier in the week between Moi and Ruto at State House, where the two reportedly discussed a framework for cooperation.
From Rivalry to Reconciliation
The rapprochement between Ruto and Moi marks a significant moment in Kenya’s political history. For over a decade, the two leaders — both sons of the Rift Valley — have been divided by sharp political and personal rivalries.
Their relationship soured in the early 2000s when Ruto began charting an independent political path, diverging from the influence of Moi’s late father, former President Daniel arap Moi.
During the 2022 General Election, Moi supported Raila Odinga’s Azimio la Umoja coalition, while Ruto led Kenya Kwanza to a decisive victory. Since then, KANU had remained largely in opposition, its influence waning in the Rift Valley.
Friday’s meeting at Kabarak, therefore, was more than just a courtesy call — it was a powerful symbol of reconciliation and a potential reset of Rift Valley’s political dynamics.
As the two leaders shook hands beneath the stately trees of Kabarak, a message was unmistakably sent across Kenya’s political landscape: in politics, there are no permanent enemies — only shifting alliances.
Leave a Reply