Uhuru rejects ‘sponsor’ tag, urges politicians to let Kenyans choose leaders

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged politicians to stop trying to block rivals from holding rallies and instead focus on selling their manifestos to Kenyans ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, on Sunday during the annual memorial service for former Vice-President Michael Kijana Wamalwa, Uhuru said voters should be left to decide who they want to lead them.

“If it is about asking for votes, let us do it in peace. Kenyans know who they want. If they say they want Kalonzo, Ruto, Matiang’i or Sifuna, whoever they decide, it is up to them,” he said.

Uhuru also distanced himself from speculation that his appearance at the event could signal a return to active politics, saying he was not seeking any political position. Although his remarks were met with jubilation, he distanced himself, saying he did not want to be labelled a political “sponsor”

“Do not say that I am interfering with politics. I am not interested in any political seat,” he said.

The former President said politicians should learn to compete without turning political differences into personal conflicts.

He pointed to his own electoral journey, recalling that he unsuccessfully sought the presidency in his first attempt before eventually being elected.

“Even me, I asked Kenyans to vote for me and they refused the first time, but the second time, I was given the opportunity,” he said.

Uhuru urged politicians preparing for the 2027 General Election to focus on selling their manifestos to voters rather than trying to prevent their opponents from holding rallies and political meetings.

Reflecting on his relationship with Wamalwa, Uhuru described the late Vice-President as a leader, friend and gentleman who loved Kenya.

He recalled that the two were on opposing sides of the political divide during the 2002 General Election, but their differences did not make them enemies.

“I was in KANU with Moi in 2002 and I asked him to join me. He told me he was on the other side, but he did not tell me how powerful a force they were. Uhuru recalled,” he said it lightheartedly.

Uhuru also paid tribute to Wamalwa and other leaders, including Martha Karua, Charity Ngilu and Kalonzo Musyoka, for their role in Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy.

He said their efforts helped secure Kenyans’ right to freely choose their leaders.

The memorial service brought together opposition leaders, including Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, PLP leader Martha Karua, former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu and Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi.

Uhuru was the chief guest at the annual memorial service held in Kitale to honour Wamalwa, who served as Vice-President under President Mwai Kibaki until his death in 2003.