In a move that has sent ripples across Kenya’s political landscape, senior presidential advisor Moses Kuria has hinted that he could be President William Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 General Election — while also declaring that the next poll will be a moment of “national consensus” rather than a contested battle.
Speaking to Citizen Tv’s Jeff Koinange on Sunday Live, Kuria boldly likened the 2027 election to the landmark 2002 vote, where Mwai Kibaki triumphed in a landslide following a powerful pre-election coalition that united the opposition and ended decades of KANU dominance.
“We are approaching a moment where Kenya will need consensus over competition,” Kuria said, adding that political stability and national progress in 2027 will hinge on unity among the elite.
The former Gatundu South MP, long seen as an ambitious and calculating political player, stopped short of announcing his candidature — but his tone and strategic posturing have fueled speculation that he is eyeing the coveted Deputy President slot.
“In 2002, Kenya came together and chose unity over division. 2027 will not be different,” Kuria declared, while standing alongside top Kenya Kwanza insiders.
His remarks come amid growing tensions within the ruling coalition and amplified opposition calls for President Ruto to serve only one term. Key figures like former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have been leading a spirited campaign to destabilize the president’s Mount Kenya base, citing betrayal and exclusion.
By invoking the spirit of 2002 and calling for elite-driven harmony, Kuria appears to be pushing for a pre-arranged succession plan — one that could see opposition figures, disgruntled allies, and Ruto loyalists broker a power-sharing pact similar to the “Handshake era,” but fronted from within the government.
Political observers say Kuria is strategically positioning himself as both a messenger and a potential beneficiary of such consensus.
“It’s clear Kuria is floating his name in the ring,” said political analyst Martin Andati. “He’s playing the long game — and playing it loud.”
However, opposition leaders have dismissed the so-called consensus plan as a smokescreen for consolidating power and avoiding electoral scrutiny.
“Kenya is a democracy, not a shareholders’ club,” said Embakasi East MP Babu Owino. “Let the people decide — not boardroom elites.”
Whether Kuria’s statements are a genuine call for unity or calculated political baiting remains to be seen. But one thing is certain — with over two years to go, the 2027 succession chessboard is already taking shape, and Moses Kuria wants to be right at the center of it.
