Majority Leader and Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa has raised concerns over former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s continued involvement in active politics, urging the elder statesman to adopt a unifying role befitting his status.
Speaking on the sidelines of a parliamentary event, Mr Ichung’wa said, “When you have had the honour to serve as President for 10 years and retire, that elevates you to another level — the level of a statesman.”
He argued that Uhuru’s persistent engagement in electoral and political contests risks undermining the dignity and stature traditionally associated with former heads of state.
Mr Ichung’wa described Uhuru as the nation’s fourth president and the only living former president, noting the symbolic importance of his position.
“He is the father figure we should all be looking up to,” he said, highlighting that the late rise of Raila Odinga to a regional statesman stature is now absent.
However, the majority leader expressed disappointment, suggesting that Uhuru’s active political role appears motivated by the aftermath of the 2022 elections.
“I see a man who is there to heal from the loss of the 2022 elections,” he remarked, implying that this focus detracts from the broader responsibilities of a former president in promoting national cohesion.
According to Mr Ichung’wa, Kenya’s democracy benefits when former leaders transcend succession politics and act as neutral reference points during politically charged periods.
“Continuous involvement in day-to-day politics reduces the stature that he ought to hold,” he added, emphasizing the need for former presidents to foster unity rather than division.
As the country prepares for upcoming electoral cycles, the call for statesmanlike conduct from Uhuru Kenyatta may shape both public expectations and party dynamics in the months ahead.