NAIROBI, Kenya- Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has warned former President Uhuru Kenyatta against returning to active politics ahead of the 2027 General Election, urging him instead to focus on his family and offer advice to the country’s political leaders.
Speaking during a public rally in Meru, Kindiki said Uhuru, who served as Kenya’s fourth president between 2013 and 2022, should respect his retirement from active leadership and avoid participating in what he described as divisive politics.
“We don’t want the fourth President of Kenya to be part of politics of divisions and incitement. He is a leader who has retired and should just advise us,” Kindiki said.
The Deputy President further urged the former Head of State to concentrate on his family, including his children and grandchildren, while continuing to provide counsel based on his experience in public service.
“When you retire from work, you should watch over your family, grandchildren…” he said.
Kindiki’s remarks come as political activity begins to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with politicians and political parties positioning themselves for alliances and campaigns.
Uhuru has largely kept a lower public profile since leaving office in September 2022, although he has remained influential within Kenya’s political circles and has continued to make occasional public interventions.
The former president has also remained associated with the Jubilee Party, which he led during his presidency, and has been involved in efforts to mediate political and regional disputes.
His role in the opposition Azimio la Umoja coalition and his relationship with former Prime Minister Raila Odinga have also kept him in the political spotlight, despite his retirement from the presidency.
Kindiki’s warning comes against the backdrop of increasing political realignment ahead of the 2027 polls, with President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration seeking to consolidate its support while opposition parties explore new alliances.
The Deputy President’s remarks are likely to fuel debate over the role former presidents should play in Kenyan politics after leaving office, particularly when their influence remains significant.
Under Kenya’s constitutional system, former presidents retain their rights as citizens, including political rights, after leaving office.
However, Kindiki appeared to be urging Uhuru to use his influence primarily as a statesman and adviser rather than as an active political player.
With the 2027 election approaching, the position of former political leaders such as Uhuru is expected to remain a subject of intense political debate.
