With political temperatures cooling down at the start of the year, it is expected that all political players within the ruling coalition and the opposition will shape the agenda this year.
Key players in shaping this year’s agenda are President Uhuru Kenyatta and his nemesis Raila Odinga.
The two have had a bitter political relationship since August 8 2017 general elections. The tiff worsened with the withdrawal of Raila from October 26 repeat presidential elections.
Now, the country is reeling in uncertainty over his plan to be ‘sworn in’ as President. Raila insists he does not recognize Uhuru’s presidency; he is an “illegitimate” President.
NASA team has called for political dialogue to end the impasse which culminates to Raila taking an oath.
But Uhuru has maintained he is not going to engage in any political dialogue with the opposition.
However, there are other players who will be playing a pivotal role in 2022 succession politics.
William Ruto
Deputy President William Ruto has laid out plans for his succession bid in 2022. Sources close to the DP, reports the Star, say that he is playing a huge role in appointment of the Cabinet.
He is angling in having a team that will deliver in Uhuru’s second term as well as harness his ambition for 2022. Ruto is also extending his charm to opposition strongholds of coast and western Kenya to create a support base ahead of 2017.
His plan includes wooing die-hard opposition governors from these two regions ahead of 2022. His poaching bid is expected to continue this year.
Anne Waiguru
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Mumbi Waiguru’s political star is shining with each day rising. After her successful gubernatorial bid on August 8, she once again positioned herself in the lucrative post of vice chairman for the Council of Governors.
Several quarters have touted her to be angling for the DP’s post in 2022.
Gideon Moi
The Baringo Senator and Kanu chairman is on sharp focus this year and beyond. Having played a huge role in the re-election of President Uhuru Kenyatta, Gideon is reportedly said to be investing immensely on his 2022 Presidential ambition.
Gideon is a political adversary of the DP. He has hitherto, negotiated a deal to have his key allies appointed to the Cabinet by President Uhuru.
Though Uhuru is yet to name his Cabinet, he is expected to do that in the next few weeks. Once he does, Gideon is expected to further his 2022 ambition.