Sources close to State House reveal that Ruto’s efforts began with the inclusion of KANU leader Gideon Moi, marking a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and expansion.
The President’s next target, insiders say, is Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader and former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa.
His inclusion is seen as part of a broader plan to weaken internal opposition alliances and sideline former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Kenya’s political scene remains fractured following the heated 2022 general election. Opposition figures including Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), Fred Matiang’i (Jubilee), Eugene Wamalwa (DAP-K), and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya have been pushing to unite ahead of 2027.
However, Ruto’s strategists appear focused on disrupting that unity, particularly by courting Eugene and exploiting divisions within the coalition.
Kalonzo has reportedly resisted repeated government overtures, forcing Ruto’s team to intensify their pursuit of Eugene, who they view as a potential bridge to the Western Kenya vote bloc. Ruto already enjoys firm support from key Luhya leaders Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and sees Eugene’s addition as a strategic reinforcement.
The report further claims Ruto’s allies are exploring alliances with ODM and Eugene’s DAP-K, while building a broad coalition through regional leaders.
Meanwhile, Gachagua is said to have withdrawn from the presidential race, instead backing a Kalonzo-led opposition front featuring Natembeya as deputy and Matiang’i as Prime Cabinet Secretary.
Feeling sidelined by this arrangement, Eugene has reportedly grown receptive to Ruto’s advances, with sources hinting that the President’s camp has offered him a significant role within the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Ruto’s broader plan, The Star reports, involves financing grassroots candidates under aligned parties especially in Central and Eastern Kenya as he seeks to capture at least 30% of the regional vote and secure a decisive 2027 victory.
By Kenyans