Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has announced plans to return to elective politics, confirming he will contest the Gatundu South parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV’s JKLive, Kuria said the move marks a political homecoming to the constituency he previously represented for nearly a decade.
“I want to have fun, I’m going to vie for the Gatundu South MP seat where it all began,” he said.
A strategic return to grassroots politics
Kuria indicated that his decision is part of a broader political roadmap, with an eye on the presidency in the 2032 General Election. He emphasized the need to reconnect with his grassroots support base as he prepares for national leadership ambitions.
“Right now, I have joined the UDA party because I will be running for president in 2032,” he said.
He explained that aligning with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) gives him a stronger national platform compared to relying solely on regional backing.
“For me to do that, UDA provides a better value proposition because of its national reach. Gatundu people are great, but they can’t make me president alone,” he added.
Mt Kenya’s political direction
Kuria also weighed in on the evolving political landscape in the Mt Kenya region, expressing confidence that the region will soon consolidate its position ahead of the 2027 elections.
“I believe that by April next year, Mt Kenya will make its decision,” he said.
He further suggested that political dynamics could shift significantly depending on the outcome of President William Ruto’s second-term bid, hinting at a possible reconfiguration of opposition leadership.
Speculation over future leadership lineup
On the question of potential running mates within UDA, Kuria pointed to several political figures as possible contenders, though he noted the uncertainty surrounding such decisions.
“Kindiki may be retained; he has a mathematical chance of being retained. Maybe maybe not, fasten your seat belts, grab some popcorn,” he said.
He also mentioned other political figures, indicating that internal party dynamics will ultimately shape the final ticket.
Leadership and influence debate
Kuria used the interview to reflect on leadership styles within the Mt Kenya region, drawing comparisons between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“The difference between Gachagua and Uhuru is like day and night. Uhuru never mentioned us by name when we had problems; that was grace,” he said.
He cautioned against self-declared political influence, arguing that leadership authority must be earned over time.
“Kingpin-ship is earned, you can’t go out there declaring yourself kingpin,” he added.
Political comeback takes shape
Kuria’s declaration sets the stage for a highly contested race in Gatundu South, a constituency that has historically played a significant role in Kenya’s political landscape.
His return signals renewed activity in Mt Kenya politics as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
With his ambitions now clearly outlined, Kuria appears to be embarking on a calculated political comeback—one that could shape both regional and national politics in the years leading up to 2032.
