Moses Kuria Explains Chances of Kindiki, Oburu Oginga Being Named Ruto’s Running Mate in 2027

Moses Kuria Explains Chances of Kindiki, Oburu Oginga Being Named Ruto’s Running Mate in 2027

Former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has weighed in on the evolving political calculations ahead of the 2027 General Election, outlining factors that could determine who becomes President William Ruto’s running mate.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Kuria said the decision will largely hinge on regional voting strength, signalling that political arithmetic—not personal alliances—will shape the final choice.

“Well, of course it will depend on the region… it’s about those numbers. It’s not a love affair,” Kuria stated.

He emphasised that electoral strategy in Kenya has historically prioritised regions capable of delivering significant vote blocs, suggesting that the deputy president slot will likely be awarded based on numerical advantage.

“There’s a reason robbers rob banks, not churches. That’s where the money is,” he added, in reference to the importance of voter-rich regions.

Kuria identified several potential candidates who could emerge as Ruto’s running mate, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.

According to the former Gatundu South MP, each of the leaders carries varying levels of political influence, with their chances tied to shifting alliances and regional dynamics.

“Kindiki may be retained; he has a mathematical chance… Oburu has a mathematical chance to be DP. He also wants power,” Kuria observed.

His remarks come amid ongoing political realignments between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and opposition figures associated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), raising speculation about possible coalition arrangements ahead of the next election.

Kuria suggested that Oburu’s prospects could be influenced by the broader relationship between UDA and ODM, particularly if political cooperation between the two formations materialises.

The former CS also addressed speculation surrounding former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho, offering a less optimistic assessment of his chances.

“Hassan Joho knows his place on the food chain… he is a very calculated, reasonable person… Joho has two chances of being a running mate, slim and none,” Kuria remarked.

Beyond political personalities, the debate over the ideal running mate has also drawn commentary from legal and political analysts. Prominent lawyer Ahmednassir Abdullahi has argued that the selection process is heavily influenced by a candidate’s ability to mobilise votes rather than technocratic competence.

According to Ahmednassir, historical precedents demonstrate that presidential tickets in Kenya are often structured around ethnic and regional voting patterns, with the deputy position playing a crucial role in consolidating electoral support.

He pointed to past elections, including the partnership between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Ruto in 2013 and 2017, as well as Ruto’s selection of Rigathi Gachagua in 2022, as examples of strategic vote mobilisation.

Analysts note that while incumbency may give Kindiki an advantage, his ability to command a substantial voter base remains a subject of debate within political circles.

As Kenya’s political landscape begins to take shape ahead of 2027, the conversation around Ruto’s potential running mate highlights the enduring role of regional arithmetic in the country’s electoral politics.

While no formal decisions have been made, Kuria’s remarks underscore the complexity of coalition-building and the strategic considerations that will likely define the next presidential race.

With alliances still fluid and political interests evolving, the race for the deputy president slot is expected to intensify in the coming months.

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Moses Kuria Explains Chances of Kindiki, Oburu Oginga Being Named Ruto’s Running Mate in 2027