Former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Saturday shared a public platform, signaling a potential thaw in their relationship following months of political estrangement.
The two leaders met during the funeral of former Kirinyaga Senator Daniel Karaba, where they were seen exchanging pleasantries and engaging in a brief chat, an interaction that has since stirred speculation of a possible renewed working relationship.
Their meeting came just days after Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni visited Gachagua at his residence, further fueling talk of quiet political realignments taking shape behind the scenes.
Addressing mourners, Kenyatta downplayed his political involvement, noting that he had retreated to private life at his Ichaweri home and was now observing national affairs like any other citizen.
“I have not much to say. I was coming from that side of our village in Ichaweri to come here and say goodbye to my friend. I was not brought here by many things, it’s just Karaba. I do not want to speak much because I might be told I am the one who brought all these people here,” Uhuru said.
He appeared surprised by the convergence of political figures at the event, stating: “I do not know where Orengo came from. Even Kalonzo was only seeing him on TV in Ukambani and other places. Even that brother of mine, Wamunyoro, I thought he would be doing his politics somewhere else. I thought I would only be with my sister Martha here. But we are here.”
Kenyatta used the platform to urge Kenyans to distinguish between genuine leadership and political rhetoric.
“It is good for people to listen to leaders, not politicians, because these politicians have very sweet tongues… Even that last-born daughter of yours, whom you hope to marry off to a well-educated man, you may end up giving her away because of a sweet tongue,” he cautioned.
In a pointed reflection, the former Head of State praised the late Karaba for remaining steadfast in his convictions despite shifting political tides.
“Karaba stood with me, even though the waves of politics were moving another side, led by Riggy G and others… Karaba decided to stand with his own decision. And he said, if you don’t like me, I won’t mind,” he said.
Kenyatta further emphasized unity as a cornerstone for national progress, recalling his political alignment with Raila Odinga.
“You know, Kenya, we must unite. That is what Raila and I wanted… Our biggest job… was for this country to be united, to be together,” he stated.
On his part, Gachagua raised concerns over current government policies, including the management of SHA, criticizing the dismantling of previous initiatives and calling for greater transparency.
He also urged opposition leaders to unite behind a single candidate ahead of the next general election.
While neither Kenyatta nor Gachagua explicitly addressed their past differences, their shared podium and cordial interaction offered a striking image of political détente, one that analysts say could point to emerging alliances as the country edges closer to the 2027 electoral cycle.
