Charles Ouma

Nairobi is undergoing remarkable transformation to turn it into a world-class city in motion, driven by innovation, ambition, and the unstoppable pulse of progress.

From the expansion of modern expressways and commuter rail lines to the redesign of public transport systems and green urban spaces, a wave of ambitious projects is reshaping how millions move, live, and work.

These upgrades are part of strategic investments by President William Ruto’s government to make Nairobi a connected, efficient, and globally competitive metropolis where mobility fuels opportunity and sustainability defines growth.

Here are some ongoing projects transforming the face of the city that once struggled under the weight of congestion, aging infrastructure and perennial traffic jams.

The transformation is powered by a clear vision: to create a city where mobility is seamless, public spaces are functional, and economic growth is inclusive and the results are increasingly redefining how the city breathes, moves, and thrives.

Millions live in the Nairobi metropolitan area of Kikuyu town and its environs and daily commute to and from the city has been a familiar struggle for those who ply this route.

Ongoing construction of the Gitaru interchange

The Gitaru Interchange, executed by the Kenya National Highways Authority is promising to resolve the chronic traffic congestion around Kikuyu town.

Once complete, it will not only eliminate a major bottleneck on the busy Nairobi-Nakuru Highway but also significantly improve traffic flow, cut travel times.

<h3>Nairobi Greenpark Terminus Pedestrian Underpass</h3>

Constructed at a cost of Sh2 Billion, the Nairobi Greenpark Terminus Pedestrian Underpass at the busy Haile Selassie–Uhuru Highway roundabout&nbsp;is along the ultra-modern infrastructure transforming Nairobi into a city where mobility is seamless, public spaces are functional, and economic growth is inclusive

The project which is being implemented by KeNHA is designed to streamline pedestrian movement across major routes, including Mombasa Road, Upper Hill, Westlands, and the Railway terminus.

It is an integrated inclusive infrastructure with elevators to serve persons with disabilities, the elderly, and expectant women.

Stretching 500 metres, the underground pedestrian walkway is equipped seven standby generators and a water pump for drainage and will host 39 shops, billboards, and rental spaces.

Security is also well taken care of with CCTV surveillance, proper lighting and a police post.

Another project rolled out to enhance mobility for commuters in the heavily trafficked city center and boost efficiency for the economy is the construction of a viaduct along Kenyatta Avenue.

The ongoing construction is a key infrastructure project being implemented by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) in East Africa’s commercial heartbeat that is home to continental headquarters, diplomatic missions and major international institutions.

Ongoing construction along Kenyatta Avenue

Implemented by the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), the ongoing construction will see an elevated roadway snake its way in the city center, minimizing conflict points and allowing through-traffic to flow seamlessly over the busy intersections on Kenyatta Avenue.

By separating through-traffic from local access traffic and pedestrians, the project will reduce travel time within the city center.

<h3>Junction Mall flyover: Unlocking the gridlock in Ngong Road</h3>

Ngong Road is one of the busiest roads in the city, with the familiar challenge of congestion, as thousands of vehicles hit the road.

The ongoing construction of the Junction Mall Flyover is designed to ease mobility in one of the busiest intersections in the city.

Ongoing construction of the Junction Mall flyover

The flyover features four lanes on top and six lanes below with 23 traffic lights to enhance road safety and efficiency, ensuring smooth navigation for all users.

Projects driving Kenya’s vision for a connected, competitive capital where mobility fuels opportunity

Nairobi Rising: Bold projects powering Kenya’s vision for a competitive capital

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has cast doubts on President William Ruto’s pledge to make Kenya a first-world country by 2050 with the head of state firing back.

Clarifying that his position is not based on malice, but informed by facts that are open for all to see, Gachagua unpacked his stance on the pledge while citing systemic problems.

Speaking during a service at PCEA Kayole in Embakasi Central, the DCP leader&nbsp;pointed out that with several gains made by the previous administrations eroded, Ruto’s ambitions may not become reality.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/gachagua-how-i-confronted-ruto-over-cabinet-appointments-and-had-my-way-2025110812594564198">He singled out the challenges facing Kenya’s public education system</a>, the mess in healthcare services, and a harsh business environment that has seen several businesses close and fire or significantly reduce staffing as indication that the country is heading in the opposite direction.

<blockquote>Nchi yetu haitembei vizuri. Minister wa national treasury ametangaza ya kwamba kuanzi January ile masomo ya bure tuliwachiwa na Kibaki haiwezekani tena. Sasa January watu wa secondary mjitayarishe kulipa. Mambo ya primary imeharibika. Mambo ya SHA haifanyi kazi. Biashara zimesimama.</blockquote>

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/gachagua-resumes-political-activities-with-another-warning-explains-his-silence-2025110115194551663">Gachagua resumes political activities with another warning, explains his silence</a>

<blockquote>I hear Ruto saying he has a plan to elevate Kenya to a First World country…I have no hard feelings or ill intentions against anyone, but I have to do the right thing. Together with other leaders we will liberate this country.</blockquote>

Rigathi Gachagua speaking at PCEA Kayole, Embakasi Central Constituency, Nairobi on Sunday, November 9

<blockquote>Kama within three years kazi yote Kibaki alifanya ya masomo umeharibu. Kazi ya matibabu ile Uhuru Kenyatta alifanya umeharibu. &nbsp;Biashara zote umeharibu. (Within three years under your watch, all the gains made by Kibaki in education have been lost. The impresive work done by Uhuru Kenyatta in health sector have also been lost, and businesses are also facing challenges).</blockquote>

<h3>Doubt meets hope as Ruto responds to Gachagua</h3>

In apparent response to Gachagua and other politicians casting doubts on the ambitious plans, President William Ruto fired back castigating leaders spreading negativity on his ambitious plan to elevate Kenya.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/inside-rutos-plan-to-make-kenya-a-1st-world-country-by-2055-and-vision-for-nairobi-2025101214151359100">Inside Ruto’s plan to make Kenya a 1st world country by 2055 &amp; vision for Nairobi</a>

<blockquote>I see many people who speak negatively about our country, I see many people who confess many negative things about our country. We have a country like no other. We have a blessed nation and we must work for it and believe in it. If you're a leader and you don't believe in Kenya, you lack valuable opinions and a plan to transform the nation and everything is negative, you are dragging us behind</blockquote>

According to Ruto, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/inside10-days-without-raila-turbulence-in-odm-ruto-closes-in-and-interests-emerge-2025102506244489812">Kenya has made commendable progress and is on course to making the great leap</a> to become a first-world country by 2055.

President Ruto reiterated his commitment to transform Kenya from a developing nation into a first-world country on October 12 during the 70th anniversary of the African Inland Church Ziwani, explaining the strategic steps he has taken to ensure that the plan becomes a reality.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/how-kindiki-has-navigated-power-and-politics-to-become-the-deputy-ruto-wanted-2025110213142900216">How Kindiki has navigated power &amp; politics to become the deputy Ruto wanted</a>

<blockquote>I want to say this in church that by God’s grace, we have been in the third world for far too long. We have had our fair share, and it is now time, by God’s grace, the efforts of our hands, the blessings of our plans, and the energy and unity of the people of Kenya, to&nbsp;move this country from a third-world to a first-world country in the next 30 years.</blockquote>

The head of state confirmed that his administration has a solid plan to make elevate the country, adding that Kenya has abundant resources to support the great plan he has in place.

<blockquote>We have what it takes, we have the ideas, the plan, the people, and the resources to take this country to a first world by 2055. I am persuaded beyond any reasonable doubt that we are going to move this country to a first world by 2055</blockquote>

The president added that he has discussed the plan with notable politicians and leaders in the country, including 80% of Members of Parliament and they are all behind it.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/can-ruto-escape-the-curse-that-hit-previous-ruling-parties-2025102710424217024">Can Ruto escape the curse that hit previous ruling parties?</a>

<blockquote>I have talked with almost 80% of MPs, Raila Odinga (the former Prime Minster died a few days after these remarks), Uhuru Kenyatta and just recently Gideon Moi&nbsp;on how we will move this country to a first-world country and I will continue to engage all leaders.</blockquote>

Ruto's administration has made strategic investment in infrastructure as well as in key sectors of the economy as part of the plan to make the great leap into first-world country status.

Rigathi Gachagua speaking at PCEA Kayole, Embakasi Central Constituency, Nairobi on Sunday, November 9 and president William Ruto in set

Rift over Kenya’s first-world ambition as Ruto & Gachagua unpack realities of Kenya’s first-world ambition

Ruto’s 2055 dream meets Gachagua’s reality check, president responds

United States President Donald Trump has said that no official in his administration will attend the G20 summit in South Africa scheduled for later this month.

According to Trump, the decision to snub the summit was informed by "human rights abuses"&nbsp;going on in the country.

Riding on his previous claims that white people are being persecuted in the country on account of their race, Trump alleged a white genocide.

<blockquote>It is a total disgrace that the G20 will be held in South Africa. Afrikaners (People who are descended from Dutch settlers, and also French and German immigrants) are being killed and slaughtered, and their land and farms are being illegally confiscated.</blockquote>

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/world/us-department-of-war-prepares-for-action-in-nigeria-after-trumps-order-2025110207043343858">U.S Department of War prepares for action in Nigeria after Trump’s order</a>

<blockquote>No U.S. Government Official will attend as long as these Human Rights abuses continue. I look forward to hosting the 2026 G20 in Miami, Florida!</blockquote>

U.S President Donald Trump addressing the press on his preparation to host G20 in 2026

Trump had earlier on indicated that he would not attend the summit, saying that the U.S. would be represented by Vice President JD Vance before announcing a total snub.

<h3>South Africa responds to Trump’s claims</h3>

The South African government maintains that these claims are inaccurate and have &quot;widely discredited and unsupported by reliable evidence&quot;.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/world/us-department-of-war-prepares-for-action-in-nigeria-after-trumps-order-2025110207043343858">Reacting to Trump’s move to boycott the summit</a>, South Africa's foreign ministry described the decision as "regrettable".

<blockquote>The South African government wishes to state, for the record, that the characterisation of Afrikaners as an exclusively white group is ahistorical.</blockquote>

<blockquote>Furthermore, the claim that this community faces persecution, is not substantiated by fact.</blockquote>

<h3>Fate of Vice President JD Vance's trip to Africa</h3>

The much-anticipated trip to Africa by Vice President JD Vance now hangs in the balance.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/why-kenya-features-as-us-vice-president-jd-vance-prepares-for-1st-trip-to-africa-2025102512550011539">Why Kenya features as U.S. Vice President JD Vance prepares for 1st trip to Africa</a>

Vance was expected to attend the Group of 20 world leaders in Johannesburg in Nov 22-23 and have high-level engagements in the sidelines.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the trip that was expected to see Vance also land in Kenya will now not proceed.

<h3>Washington’s frosty relations with Pretoria</h3>

The relationship between Pretoria and Washington has been a frosty one is recent days with the two governments reading from different scripts on a number of issues.

File image of presidents Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa) and Donald Trump (U.S.)

Apart from Trump’s claims of persecution of Afrikaners (claims that the South African government has dismissed as factually inaccurate), Washington has had issues with the African country’s domestic and foreign policies.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/trump-just-cited-kenya-in-address-to-top-us-military-bosses-heres-what-he-said-2025100105552344039">Trump just cited Kenya in address to top U.S. Military bosses. Here's what he said</a>

South Africa’s land policy and its ongoing case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza are among the issues contributing to the frosty relations in Trump’s second stint at the White House.

A mix of domestic and foreign policies are at the heart of the frosty relations which has also impacted Vice President JD Vance’s much-anticipated first trip to Africa

Inside Trump’s frosty relations with South Africa as U.S. boycotts G 20 Summit

Kenya’s digital universe lit up for the Pulse Influencer Awards 2025 on Friday evening as the brightest stars of social media gathered to celebrate creativity, influence, and impact.

From icons redefining culture one post at a time to boundary-breaking trendsetters, this year’s winners proved that influence is more than just numbers and online presence; it’s about authenticity, connection, positive impact and influence that shape conversations across social media.

The awards were proof that influence, when done right, is pure magic with the winners exemplifying the power of authentic storytelling and innovation in an ever-evolving influencer ecosystem.

<h3>Bold fashion statements &amp; personal style on the red carpet</h3>

Under glittering lights and a backdrop of elegance, digital queens and kings graced the red carpet as fashion truly met fame in spectacular harmony.

Jaymoh Decin (Comedy Influencer Of The Year) and Akoko Val (Food Influencer Of The Year)

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/kenyas-digital-royalty-crowned-at-the-pulse-influencer-awards-2025-full-list-2025110810542165955">Kenya's digital royalty crowned at the Pulse Influencer Awards 2025 [Full List]</a>

The event was not only a celebration of talent and achievement but also a dazzling showcase of high fashion and personal style.

Judysheila Mugo (Director of Content, Pulse East Africa. Lead organiser of the Pulse Influencer Awards Kenya and Uganda for 5 years in a row in Kenya and 2 years in Uganda) with Kalondu Musyimi (Media & Blogger Influencer Of The Year)

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/2-content-creators-who-have-won-most-pulse-influencer-awards-2024092715004785910">2 content creators who have won most Pulse Influencer Awards</a>

From flowing couture gowns to sleek tailored suits, the stars turned the evening into a runway of glamour, each look telling its own story of sophistication, boldness, and creativity.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as photographers captured every shimmering detail, during the night of impactful connection and celebration of creative excellence.

Dem Wa Facebook (Facebook Influencer Of The Year) Roy Kanyi (Tech Influencer Of The Year) and Mjaka Mfine (TikTok Influencer Of The Year)

<h3>Celebrating wins and reflections on the journey to stardom</h3>

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/pulse-africa-announces-5th-edition-of-pulse-influencer-awards-2025081314134607928">Emotions ran high as winners of the night took to the stage</a> to accept their awards, their heartfelt speeches filled with gratitude and reflection.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/ncba-elev8-turns-the-spotlight-on-kenyas-creative-economy-at-the-pulse-influencer-awards-2025110710175445363">NCBA ELEV8 turns the spotlight on Kenya’s creative economy at the Pulse Influencer Awards</a>

One after another, winners expressed deep appreciation for the fans who have supported their journeys, the families who stood by them through every challenge, and the teams who helped turn dreams into reality.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/kenyas-digital-royalty-crowned-at-the-pulse-influencer-awards-2025-full-list-2025110810542165955">Their own contribution to the win and recognition was not lost</a> as they acknowledged their own perseverance and growth, making the night a moving tribute to passion, resilience, and the power of gratitude as was captured by Mathare Youth Kids who took the crown of Dance Influencer of the Year.

Winners of the night had kind words for nominees in the various categories, acknowledging that while the night was theirs, those who may not have won will also have their day.

Jaymoh Decin promised to take the award to various outlets that have been supporting him through the his journey, adding that he would also take it to Archives along Moi Avenue for fans to also celebrate with him.

Pulse Influencer Awards 2025 was the fifth edition of the coveted awards and saw new categories introduced to&nbsp;reflect local trends and evolving content formats.

Unforgettable moments from Pulse Influencer Awards 2025: Fashion, fame & influence

How top Kenyan influencers lit up Pulse Influencer Awards with bold fashion statements, personal reflections & messages of gratitude

Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has praised his security agencies, boldly confirming that his government abducted two Kenyan activists and “put them in the fridge”.

In a media interview granted to UBC TV barely hours after Kenyans activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo were released by Ugandan authorities after more than five weeks in captivity, Museveni praised his extra-judicial tactics of handling critics and activists.

According to Museveni, the two activists are 'experts in chaos' and had crossed over to Uganda to team up with opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine and this necessitated their abduction.

He heaped praises on the country’s intelligence for a ‘job well done’ despite the worrying violation of human rights and brutality in his quest for another term in office.

<blockquote>Here in Uganda, we have our own groups, which we monitor; we have very good intelligence…For instance, we arrested two Kenyans; I do not remember their names. They were working with Kyagulanyi’s group; they are experts in riots.</blockquote>

Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo at the Busia border shortly after being released by Ugandan authorities

Museveni confirmed that the activists were released after Kenyan leaders reached out demanding their release or prosecution after being held incommunicado for 38 days.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/38-day-ordeal-of-kenyan-activists-abducted-in-uganda-uhurus-role-in-their-release-2025110809352170648">38-day ordeal of Kenyan activists abducted in Uganda: Uhuru’s role in their release</a>

<blockquote>Of course, with our very good intelligence, we picked them up and they have been in the fridge for some days. Now, some Kenyan leaders rang me and said I should either put them in jail here or hand them back.</blockquote>

Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo were abducted by armed men after attending an event graced by Bobi Wine on October 1, 2025.

The two activists were released late on Friday night after concerted efforts by the diplomatic community, Kenyan government and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta bore fruits.

<h3>Torture, starvation &amp; inhumane treatment at the hands of Museveni's men</h3>

Speaking shortly after their release, Njagi and Oyoo recounted how they were held in a military facility in dehumanising conditions.

38-day ordeal of Kenyan activists abducted in Uganda: Uhuru’s role in their release

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/38-day-ordeal-of-kenyan-activists-abducted-in-uganda-uhurus-role-in-their-release-2025110809352170648">They recounted being tortured and starved at the hands of Ugandan authorities </a>while being held at Kasenyi Military Barracks in Entebbe.

“We were in military detention by the special forces. I didn’t eat for 14 days. We were tortured,”&nbsp;Njagi recounted.

Despite holding them for more than five weeks, the Ugandan government consistently denied any involvement.

Museveni has been fingered by the international community and rights groups for violently cracking down on the opposition as he eyes another term in office with state agencies efforts to extend his 39-year rule.

According to reports by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, security forces and the judiciary have been used to suppress opposition voices with arbitrary arrests and detentions of opposition figures common.

Under his watch, civilians have been tried in military courts despite constitutional rulings that such practice is unlawful with the legal and regulatory framework being used to restrict the freedoms of expression, association and assembly.

In the media interview granted to UBC TV barely hours after Kenyans activists Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo were released by Ugandan authorities after more than five weeks in captivity, Museveni praised his intelligence and took pride in the extra-judicial tactics used to handle critics and activists.

Museveni confirms abducting 2 Kenyan activists & "putting them in the fridge"

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is quietly but significantly shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general election in Kenya through strategic moves and public engagements

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="Uhuru who is enjoying his retirement has emerged as a kingmaker whose actions have ripple effects in the political ecosystem with 2027 presidential hopefuls eyeing his endorsement and keen on being part of a coalition of alliance that has his backing.">Uhuru who is enjoying his retirement has emerged as a kingmaker </a>whose actions have ripple effects in the political ecosystem with 2027 presidential hopefuls eyeing his endorsement and keen on being part of a coalition of alliance that has his backing.

<h3>Public engagements &amp; championing a new political message</h3>

The retired president’s public engagements have increased in the recent past with appearance at major public events.

President Uhuru Kenyatta speaking during a Jubilee Grassroots leaders meeting in Muranga

He has been championing a new political message centred on youth inclusion, unity, and continuity of his development legacy while praising the youth for their courage in demanding accountability and good governance from their elected leaders.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/how-visits-to-railas-gravesite-are-shaping-2027-elections-2025110806314026268">How visits to Raila’s gravesite are shaping 2027 elections</a>

At multiple party events - including a high-profile meeting in Thika in November 2025 Uhuru urged young Kenyans to step into leadership roles, portraying Jubilee as a platform for generational renewal.

<h3>Strategic decisions &amp; active involvement in Jubilee</h3>

The Registrar of Political Parties reinstated Uhuru as leader of Jubilee, alongside his allies in key positions, and this development marked the renaissance of the party.

Since then, Uhuru has been on a mission to revive the party and position it strategically for the 2027 contest.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/gachagua-how-i-confronted-ruto-over-cabinet-appointments-and-had-my-way-2025110812594564198">Under his direction, the party has reopened regional offices,</a> held grassroots mobilisation meetings across Mt. Kenya and other regions, and re-energised its county-level networks in preparation for the 2027 elections.

He has publicly announced that Jubilee will field candidates in all elective positions in 2027, signalling a return to active political competition rather than remaining an appendage of other alliances.

<h3>Grassroot mobilisation &amp; calming the storm for Gachagua</h3>

Uhuru attended a grassroots meeting organized by his Jubilee party in Thika earlier this week.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/uhuru-at-64-health-challenges-enduring-bond-with-kenyans-and-crafting-a-solid-legacy-2025102612320824934">Uhuru at 64: Health challenges, enduring bond with Kenyans &amp; crafting a solid legacy</a>

The meeting that was also graced by Fred Matiang’i who is the party’s presidential candidate was part of Uhuru’s efforts to rebuild Jubilee party’s grassroots networks ahead of 2027.

It was also a statement of the silent power Uhuru still wields in retirement and his active involvement in party organisation and strategic planning within Jubilee.

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and other Jubilee party officials at a recent public event

The retired president calmed the storm for Rigathi Gachagua who has been on the receiving end of fierce criticism.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/uhuru-rattles-govt-top-brass-from-retirement-murkomen-responds-2025042704480754673">Uhuru rattles gov’t top brass from retirement, Murkomen responds</a>

<h3>Why it is impossible to ignore Uhuru</h3>

Growing commentary suggest that the fourth president is the hidden card in the 2027 presidential election.

He has deep pockets and influential connections that can mobilise resources to mount a formidable campaign.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/uhuru-kenyatta-warns-jubilee-members-against-insulting-gachagua-2025110714591710488">Uhuru Kenyatta warns Jubilee members against insulting Gachagua</a>

Uhuru is also loved by millions who recognise his leadership, appreciate his counsel and cherish his contribution to Kenya’s progress. In his Mount Kenya home turf and beyond, many still look up to him to give the community a political direction especially in the wake of Rigathi Gachagua’s fallout with President Ruto and the allegations of betrayal that followed.

His appearance in public sparks cheers of approval and appreciation as was the case at Nyayo National Stadium during the state funeral service for Raila Odinga and most recently in Murang’a.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/why-rutos-men-are-uneasy-with-uhuru-2025050404362370078">Why Ruto's men are uneasy with Uhuru, the power he wields &amp; why he is an asset</a>

This public appeal can quickly be turned to political support for a candidate who receives his backing.

Uhuru who is enjoying his retirement has emerged as a kingmaker whose actions have ripple effects in the political ecosystem with 2027 presidential hopefuls eyeing his endorsement and keen on being part of a coalition of alliance that has his backing.

Inside Uhuru’s quest to shape Kenya’s politics & 2027 presidential election

The choice of a running mate in 2027 presidential election is emerging as a major strategic challenge for President William Ruto who is keen on securing a second term and who boldly declared that Raila Odinga was the only person who could have posed a formidable challenge while exuding confidence of trouncing any opponent.

Recent demands by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party that it will accept nothing short of the Deputy President (if not the top seat) only complicate what is already proving to be a difficult decision for a president whose former deputy has made it his personal mission to make him a serve one term.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/gachagua-how-i-confronted-ruto-over-cabinet-appointments-and-had-my-way-2025110812594564198">While the deputy-presidential slot may seem secondary to the presidency</a>, in Kenya’s political context it is crucial for ticket balancing — both regionally and in terms of party alliances.

Ruto must navigate fault lines within his own coalition, regional vote-blocks, and evolving electoral dynamics.

Several structural and political constraints shape Ruto’s decision and maximise the viability of his candidature.

<h3>Base consolidation, expansion &amp; regional loyalties</h3>

Ruto sailed to victory with overwhelming support from the Mount Kenya region. His fallout with Gachagua was a defining moment of his relationship with vote bloc with growing commentary suggesting that he cannot afford to lose the region.

After Gachagua’s impeachment, Kindiki Kithure who hails from the region was picked as the deputy president and this helped in silencing a narrative driven by Gachagua that the Mount Kenya region had been short-changed.

File image of President William Ruto with his deputy Kithure Kindiki

While picking a candidate from Mount Kenya may help in his efforts to ring-fence the region, the President must also look beyond his current base and broaden support in regions such as Nyanza, the Coast and Western Kenya.

<h3>Alliance and coalition dynamics: Who gets what</h3>

Alliances and coalitions will shape the outcome of the 2027 elections and going into the contest, Ruto is likely to reach out to other players and parties just like he did in 2022.

As part of coalition calculations, the running-mate slot might go to other parties that enter into a coalition agreement with Ruto’s party, unlike in 2022 when Gachagua was picked to shore up the Mount Kenya region.

Notably, the person picked for the slot must bring real value in terms of votes and tick many other boxes increase Ruto’s chances of winning the contest.

Those eyeing the running-mate slot might have to be content with what is promised to them should their side secure victory or bolt out to join rival outfits.

<h3>Continuity vs change: The reality of an evolving political landscape</h3>

Ruto’s current deputy hails from the Mount Kenya region by growing commentary suggest that Kindiki might be dropped to align Ruto’s candidature with the realities of the political landscape and accommodate new allies, coalitions and alliances.

As such,&nbsp; change may be inevitable to maximise his electoral viability in 2027 with hints that a broad-based ticket may be the direction to go.

Neither Ruto nor Kindiki has made a pronouncement on this but as possible alliance/coalition partners continue to table their demands, the possibility of Kindiki being dropped is becoming more apparent.

<h3>Gender, youth and voter expectations</h3>

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/why-ruto-faces-a-tough-balancing-act-in-2027-2025110509153597536">A ticket that reflects gender and generational change is the expectation </a>of many and having a running mate who is acceptable to these demographics may be a key consideration.

Based on what each is bringing to the table, some analysts suggest the running-mate slot might go to a female or a youthful politician capable of mobilising these vote blocs to secure victory.

The running-mate choice is not simply about 2027: it is a consequential decision that may determine whether Ruto’s presidency ends after one term or whether he positions his party and allies for a longer stay in power.

Oburu Odinga addressing ODM delegates who formally endorsed him to take over as party leader, cementing growing regional support.

Balancing the competing demands to make the right choice could strengthen his re-election bid, but the wrong one could provide an opening for challengers.

Recent demands by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party that it will accept nothing short of the Deputy President (if not the top seat) only complicate what is already proving to be a difficult decision for a president whose former deputy has made it his personal mission to make him a serve one term.

The running mate gamble: How Ruto’s 2027 choice could define his legacy

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has opened up on the tense moments that preceded the announcement of new Cabinet Secretaries after President William Ruto dissolved his cabinet in the wake of last year’s Gen Z protests.

Gachagua who gave his version of events on Friday at Justin Muturi’s Muturi's book launch recounted that the reconstitution of the cabinet was shrouded in secrecy, detailing how he confronted President William Ruto after being called to join the President in announcing new CSs without knowing who would be appointed.

According to Gachagua, Ruto summoned him alongside Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi to join the head of state at a press conference where the second batch of Cabinet Secretaries was to be announced.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/how-kindiki-has-navigated-power-and-politics-to-become-the-deputy-ruto-wanted-2025110213142900216">Ruto prepared the list without involving Gachagua</a> and their role was to simply flank the president as he made the announcement.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader who was serving as Ruto’s deputy at the time insisted on seeing the list, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/dennis-itumbis-truth-on-the-other-side-of-gachagua-that-kenyans-dont-know-2025092013400527398">making it clear that he could not flank the president without seeing the names.</a>

File image of President William Ruto flanked by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Rigathi Gachagua

<blockquote>In the next appointment, he called Musalia and I to flank him and announce the last batch. He was in a hurry and told us to go. I told him to wait, how do we flank you to announce what we don't know? If we're flanking you, we must be part and parcel of it. I cannot hear it for the first time with the rest of Kenyans and the press. Ruto rushed to his office</blockquote>

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/politics/matiangis-silent-moves-and-why-gachagua-is-uneasy-as-cracks-emerge-in-opposition-2025100410173058922">Matiang’i’s silent moves &amp; why Gachagua is uneasy as cracks emerge in opposition</a>

According to the former DP, Ruto retreated to his office and whipped out the list which he threw at Gachagua while cautioning him over his conduct.

<h3>Final list altered &amp; threat of storming out of press conference</h3>

Gachagua narrated that he reviewed the final list and established that Justin Muturi had been left out and replaced by someone else.

<blockquote>Ruto came back and threw the list at me. I looked at it and found that JB had been dropped and he had put someone else. I asked him, who's this? He's somebody Cecily Mbarire brought. I told him I couldn't be part and parcel of it.</blockquote>

He then made it clear to the President that he would only join him if Muturi is included in the list.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/gachaguas-game-plan-as-iebc-kicks-off-continuous-voter-registration-2025092714504799323">Ruto who was not impressed with the theatrics</a> allowed him to strike out one name from the list and replace it with Justin Muturi’s.

Charles Ouma

Articles written by the author

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