Anne Waiguru has launched a new strategy in the high-stakes race to succeed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, including a website highlighting her two decades of public service.
The Kirinyaga Governor, regarded as the strongest female candidate, made the move as the race to succeed Gachagua heats up.
With an impeachment motion against the Deputy President pending in the Senate, aspirants are already vying for a possible vacancy in the country’s second-highest office.
The website depicts Waiguru’s journey from Technical Advisor for Public Sector Reforms under President Mwai Kibaki to Cabinet Secretary and Governor.
Her timing suggests an attempt to seize the moment, with Gachagua’s political fate hanging in the balance.
According to a schedule released on Friday, October 11, the Senate will begin deliberations next Wednesday, with the final vote scheduled for Thursday.
If the impeachment is successful, Waiguru will be one of five frontrunners for the position, down from more than ten initially.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki is widely regarded as the leading candidate, bolstered by support from Mt Kenya lawmakers and regional leaders.
His longstanding relationship with President Ruto, which dates back to his defence of Ruto during the International Criminal Court trials, puts him in a strong position.
Kindiki was even a top contender for Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 elections before the former Deputy President chose Gachagua.
However, Waiguru has distinct advantages.
As a second-term governor, she exemplifies the movement for gender inclusion in leadership.
However, her tenure as Chairperson of the Council of Governors, during which she clashed with MPs over the Constituency Development Fund, could be a stumbling block.
Her abrasive reputation, which some compare to Gachagua’s, may complicate her bid as Parliament prepares for a contentious vetting process if she is nominated.
Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, another key contender, enjoys widespread support, particularly in a county with over 650,000 registered voters.
Kang’ata is known for his conciliatory approach, and his political career from ward representative to senator and now governor makes him a formidable candidate.
Analysts question his ability to rally support outside of Murang’a, potentially limiting his national appeal.
Former Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri remains in the fray, drawing on his deep knowledge of Kikuyu culture and politics.
His victory in Laikipia East over the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) wave demonstrated resilience.
However, his regional focus may fall short of garnering the broad support required to secure the deputy presidency.
Despite reports of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s interest, his candidacy appears unlikely.
The failure to consolidate Western Kenya’s support for Ruto in 2022 continues.
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