President William Ruto and KANU chairman Gideon Moi held private talks at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday, in what insiders describe as an effort by the President to persuade Moi to withdraw from the Baringo senatorial by-election following the death of Senator William Cheptumo.
The discreet meeting has triggered political speculation, with observers suggesting that the meeting could signal a potential sewn in relations between the two long-time Rift Valley rivals. Reliable sources indicate that the meeting largely focused on the upcoming November 27 by-election.
According to a senior KANU official who sought anonymity, President Ruto politely urged Moi to step aside in favour of UDA candidate, Vincent Chemitei, but Moi is said to have declined the President’s request, insisting to remain firm in the race.
“The President made the appeal in a very respectful manner, but the Chairman declined respectfully as well,” a senior KANU insider told the press.
However, sources within the State House presented a different version, claiming that Moi had tentatively agreed to step down, but asked for time to consult his party leadership before making a formal announcement.
“He agreed in principle but will first brief the party hierarchy,” a State House source said.
Moi was accompanied by KANU Secretary-General George Wainaina and former Baringo Woman Representative Gladwell Cheruiyot.
It’s understood that the Moi family’s business interests, some of which have faced operational hurdles under the Ruto administration, also came up during the discussion. The meeting therefore touched on both political and economic issues, aimed at establishing a working relationship between the two leaders.
Analysts believe Ruto is keen to avoid an embarrassing loss in Baringo, a region that has traditionally been a stronghold of his political influence.
“If Moi wins the seat, it would shift perceptions of Ruto’s dominance in the Rift Valley and revive KANU’s grassroots presence,” said political commentator Dismas Mokua.
In the 2022 General Election, William Cheptumo (UDA) won with 141,177 votes, while Gideon Moi (KANU) garnered 71,480. Independent candidate Felix Chelaite followed with a meagre 3,261 votes.
KANU insiders say Moi views this by-election as a chance to rebuild KANU’s influence and reignite the Moi family’s political legacy in the region.
“The Chairman believes it’s time to reclaim KANU’s roots and re-establish the party in Rift Valley,” a party official added.
