EXPERT: I believe Mt Kenya may support a ticket without its own

EMPHRAIM WAINAINA 

I believe Mt Kenya is unlikely to automatically support a presidential ticket that does not include one of its own as either the presidential candidate or the running mate. However, I do not see this as an absolute position. The region could still back such a ticket, depending on the coalition's line-up, the political bargain on offer and endorsements from influential leaders.

Mt Kenya has become more strategic than sentimental in its voting patterns. Voters want to know where their interests fit into the next administration, who will defend them, and what benefits they stand to gain. That is why coalition-building, power-sharing and credible commitments matter more than campaign slogans.

Any presidential contender must understand that Mt Kenya is not a voting bloc to be courted at the last minute. If a ticket excludes one of its own, the coalition must work harder to convince voters that the region's interests will remain protected.

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's endorsement could prove decisive. His political influence remains significant, and his support could reassure voters that a coalition without a Mt Kenya candidate still values the region.

Equally important is the influence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Despite his impeachment, he retains a loyal following, and his support or opposition is likely to shape political opinion across the region.

This reflects a broader reality in Kenyan politics: regional voting blocs remain influential even as national coalitions emerge. Mt Kenya voters want assurances they will not simply provide votes and then be excluded from government. They are also increasingly united in defending their collective political and economic interests.

For that reason, any coalition seeking the region's support must present a clear political bargain. It should outline meaningful leadership roles, fair Cabinet representation and practical policy commitments that address the region's priorities. Without such guarantees, scepticism and hesitation are inevitable.

Mt Kenya remains one of Kenya's most influential voting blocs. Whether it backs a ticket without one of its own will depend on the coalition's credibility, the positions taken by Uhuru and Gachagua, and the confidence voters have that their interests will be protected in the next government.

The political commentator and Thika MP aspirant spoke to the Star