KITALE, Aug 23, 2026 – Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has vehemently denied claims that he is bankrolling the opposition against President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 polls.
Speaking during the memorial service of former Vice President Michael Wamalwa Kijana in Kitale on Sunday, Uhuru said the decision on who leads the country lies with Kenyans.
“Jameni sitaki kuitwa sponsor(I don’t want to be called a sponsor). It’s the people who will decide. If they say it is Kalonzo, Ruto, Matiang’i, or Sifuna, it will be so. Power belongs to the people,” Uhuru said.
He maintained that he has no intention of returning to active politics or contesting any seat in next year’s General Election.
Uhuru urged Kenyans to safeguard their constitutional rights, including freedom of association, assembly and speech, while shunning divisive and tribal politics.
“Do not allow yourselves to be divided. It is time for other leaders to contest, and Kenyans will decide at the ballot,” he said.
He challenged opposition leaders eyeing the presidency to unite and front a single candidate.
“Everyone can say they want to be president, but only God decides on one. If they want progress, they must come together and respect each other,” he said.
His remarks come against the backdrop of sustained attacks from President Ruto, who accuses his predecessor of financing the United Alternative Government-in-waiting and fanning ethnic politics.
Speaking in Eldoret on August 13, Ruto said: “He is busy financing opposition leaders and promoting ethnic-based politics. He is organizing his proxies to compete with me.”
Ruto also questioned Uhuru’s development record compared to his own administration’s achievements in the last four years.
But opposition leaders dismissed the funding claims, insisting their activities are supported by contributions from ordinary Kenyans and well-wishers.
Uhuru was accompanied by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, DP leader Justin Muturi, PLP leader Martha Karua, Jubilee Deputy Leader Fred Matiang’i and NARC leader Charity Ngilu.
The leaders said every Kenyan has a right to choose their preferred leader without intimidation and reaffirmed their commitment to uniting behind one presidential candidate to face Ruto in 2027.
“We will work together to identify and support one credible candidate capable of defeating the current regime,” they said.
