Wamuzi News Ke
In a striking confession at Kabarak on Friday, President William Ruto revealed that he personally convinced Gideon Moi to withdraw from the Baringo Senate race, a move long speculated in political circles.
The admission exposes the inner machinations behind recent alliance deals and raises fresh questions over the cost of unity pacts. Ruto made the disclosure during a packed gathering of KANU loyalists and ruling party officials, where the erosion of opposition boundaries and alignment of political futures took center stage.
“He Didn’t Want to Run” — Ruto’s Account.
Addressing thousands at the Moi family estate, Ruto recounted private conversations and statehouse negotiations that ultimately led to Moi stepping aside from contesting the Senate seat. “I persuaded him to step down,” Ruto declared, confirming what many believed to be the real reason behind Moi’s absence from the nomination process.
Observers note the timing is critical: Moi’s sudden withdrawal cleared the path for the UDA candidate, aligning with the larger pact that now integrates KANU into Ruto’s coalition.
Political Implications: Power Play in Ridge ValleyRuto’s statement doesn’t just confirm a backroom deal—it redraws the map of political accountability in the region.
Analysts suggest:Alliance leverage: Moi’s withdrawal may have secured deeper concessions for KANU within national structures.Opposition fracture: The move risks splintering anti-government fronts in traditional opposition strongholds.
Electoral advantage: With Moi out of contention, UDA’s candidate faces less resistance in Baringo, increasing the likelihood of a win.—What to WatchKANU’s role in government: Will the party gain substantive offices or merely symbolic alignment?
Formal contracts or pacts: Documents or power sharing terms could surface, revealing the currency of the handshake.Opposition reaction: Whether political rivals will expose or sabotage the pact in upcoming campaigns.Public sentiment in Baringo: Voter mood in the county may shift if the move is viewed as betrayal or strategic unity.
