Former Mukurweini MP Kabando wa Kabando has warned that recent deals made by President William Ruto — including cooperation with former opposition leaders and a truce with KANU’s Gideon Moi — risk diluting genuine opposition.
He described the broad-based government approach and alliance with Moi as tactical moves meant to distract political challengers.
Kabando’s remarks followed Ruto’s public agreement with KANU chairman Gideon Moi, whereby KANU will formally join the broad-based government.
The pact came after Moi withdrew his candidacy in the Baringo senatorial race, a decision he attributed to a prior agreement with Ruto that included development commitments for his home region.
In his reaction, Kabando faulted what he called “political grafting” of inexperienced actors to divide united opposition forces.
“Rais Ruto outsmarts scions of oligarchs. He has also grafted greenhorns to distract against United Opposition,” he said.
He urged resistance to violence and unlawful killings, warning that plots to escalate civil strife must fail.
The truce builds on earlier cooperation between Ruto and Raila Odinga under the broad-based government framework.
While Ruto has defended the arrangement as promoting national unity, critics argue it risks undermining independent opposition.
Kabando, known for his firm stand on governance and political accountability, said such alliances have in the past failed to deliver reforms or improve public welfare.
His remarks echo growing public unease that the broad-based model could erode checks and balances by absorbing opposition leaders into government.
Kabando’s critique highlights growing tensions over how political alliances are formed in Kenya ahead of the 2027 elections.
His warnings reflect fears that the broad-based government model may be used to weaken genuine political contest under the guise of unity.