Kenyan Newspapers Review: Kindiki to Move Out of Harambee House Annex as Ruto-Raila Deal Takes Shape
Kenyan politics is once again at a turning point as reports emerge of a possible agreement between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga. Newspapers across the country have highlighted key developments surrounding the deal, which could see major shifts in government positions and political dynamics.
Taifa Leo: Gachagua Takes on Ruto
The Swahili daily Taifa Leo focused on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s sharp criticism of President William Ruto. Speaking during a church service in Machakos on March 2, Gachagua dismissed Ruto’s claim that the opposition lacks a clear development agenda. He insisted that the opposition’s top priority was to unseat Ruto in the next General Election.
“It’s not that we have no plan, but the most urgent plan we’ve been given by Kenyans is to defeat you in the next polls. It’s not possible to implement our plans before we remove you, because one of our plans is to end abductions and extrajudicial killings. Another plan is to restore the health system, which you have messed up,” Gachagua stated.
The former deputy president accused Ruto’s administration of failing to address key national issues, including healthcare and security. He vowed that the opposition would continue pushing for change, emphasizing their commitment to exposing government failures and injustices.
The Standard: Ruto-Raila Deal Taking Shape
According to The Standard, discussions between President Ruto and Raila Odinga are progressing, with both sides negotiating the terms of a power-sharing arrangement. Raila is pushing for a deal similar to the one he signed with President Daniel Moi in 1997, while Ruto prefers a structure akin to the 2008 National Accord that Raila agreed upon with President Mwai Kibaki.
Sources indicate that under the proposed deal, a position of a non-executive Prime Minister will be created for Raila through an Act of Parliament. If implemented, the arrangement will see key government offices reshuffled. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki will move out of Harambee House Annex to his Karen offices, while Musalia Mudavadi will continue operating from his Railways headquarters office.
Additionally, the deal includes increased security for Raila, signaling that his new role is being formalized. President Ruto is also offering Raila more influence in government through additional appointments, including Cabinet and Principal Secretary positions, parliamentary committee slots, ambassadorial postings, and other key government roles.
Ruto has reportedly offered Raila 12 Principal Secretary positions, but ODM is pushing for 16. There are also discussions about reviving the Ministry for Devolution and replacing Attorney General Justin Muturi with an ODM nominee.
What This Means for Kenya’s Political Landscape
If the deal goes through, it could reshape Kenya’s political future by reducing tensions between the government and opposition. However, it could also trigger backlash from Ruto’s allies who may feel sidelined. Meanwhile, Gachagua’s defiance signals growing cracks within Ruto’s camp, raising questions about unity in the ruling coalition.
As political maneuvering intensifies, Kenyans will be watching closely to see how these negotiations unfold and what impact they will have on governance and service delivery in the country.
In other news:Gachagua: My Impeachment Won’t Stop Me from Vying in 2027
Kenyan Newspapers Review: Kindiki to Move Out of Harambee House Annex as Ruto-Raila Deal Takes Shape