According to sources close to State House, Ruto’s attention has now shifted towards former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa, as he seeks to isolate former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and exploit rifts within the opposition.
The opposition fronted by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Gachagua, Jubilee’s Fred Matiang’i, Eugene, and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, has been working to consolidate its base in preparation for a strong challenge against the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Ruto’s strategists have redirected their focus toward Eugene, who is seen as a crucial figure in mobilising the Luhya community and strengthening Ruto’s support in Western Kenya.
The President already enjoys the backing of key Western leaders such as Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
He has also been engaging with ODM figures within the broad-based government, including Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya.
Reports suggest Ruto’s team is working to broaden the Kenya Kwanza coalition through formal alliances with parties like ODM and Eugene’s Democratic Action Party (Kenya).
Insiders claim Gachagua has opted out of the 2027 presidential race and instead agreed to back a coalition led by Kalonzo, with Natembeya as his running mate and Matiang’i serving as Prime Minister.
The foregoing configuration reportedly left Eugene feeling marginalised, as he believes he deserves a top-tier role, possibly as deputy president in any opposition alliance.
His growing unease reportedly encouraged Ruto’s team to ramp up their engagement, offering Eugene a prominent role within Kenya Kwanza.
They argue that joining the ruling coalition could offer more tangible benefits than remaining in a divided opposition.
Ruto has publicly expressed confidence in securing a decisive victory in 2027, asserting that the late Raila Odinga was his only serious challenger.
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