Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has revived memories of the 2022 General Election after saying he still believes Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga won the presidential contest.
Speaking about the disputed election, Uhuru said he remains convinced that “Baba” won, referring to Raila Odinga. His remarks have once again drawn attention to one of the most closely contested elections in Kenya’s recent political history.
Raila was declared the runner-up after the 2022 presidential election, with William Ruto being declared the winner by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Raila and his team challenged the results at the Supreme Court, but the court unanimously upheld Ruto’s victory.
Uhuru, who had backed Raila in the election after their famous 2018 handshake, has previously maintained that the election did not reflect what he expected. His latest remarks have therefore attracted renewed discussion among Kenyans, especially as political parties and leaders prepare for the 2027 General Election.
The former president’s statement comes at a time when political realignments are taking shape across the country. Opposition leaders are holding talks on how to work together, while President Ruto’s administration continues to strengthen its political base ahead of the next election.
Raila’s supporters have also continued to argue that their preferred candidate was unfairly denied victory in 2022. However, the Supreme Court ruling remains the final legal determination on the presidential election dispute.
Uhuru’s latest comments are likely to keep the 2022 election debate alive, even as attention shifts toward the political battles expected in 2027.
With new alliances emerging and leaders positioning themselves for the next election, the former president’s remarks add another chapter to Kenya’s continuing political debate over the 2022 presidential contest.