NAIROBI — Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has declared that he has forgiven the people of Mt Kenya for what he has repeatedly described as their “mistake” in the 2022 general election, while urging them not to repeat it as the country heads toward 2027.
Speaking in recent public appearances, including at a funeral in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, Uhuru recalled how he had strongly advised the region to back the Azimio la Umoja ticket of Raila Odinga and Martha Karua. The majority of Mt Kenya voters instead supported William Ruto, who went on to win the presidency.
“I am happy, even after you people refused to listen to me. That is upon you. When I told you, you were making the wrong decision, you all thought you knew better,” he told mourners. He added pointedly: “A mistake is not a mistake unless it is repeated.”
The former president framed the 2022 outcome as a costly error for the region but indicated that he harbours no lasting bitterness. His comments come amid a broader political thaw in which some Mt Kenya leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in earlier statements, have publicly sought Uhuru’s forgiveness for the bitter attacks directed at him during the 2022 campaigns.
Uhuru has also dismissed claims by President Ruto and his allies that he is financing opposition activities as a “sponsor,” insisting he is content in retirement and has no plans to seek elective office again. He recently handed formal leadership of the Jubilee Party to former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i while retaining an advisory role.
Political observers say Uhuru’s message of forgiveness combined with a firm warning is aimed at shaping Mt Kenya’s political direction ahead of the next election cycle, as competing camps jostle for the region’s support.
