The political landscape in Baringo County took a dramatic turn on Thursday after KANU National Chairman Gideon Moi announced his withdrawal from the upcoming Baringo Senatorial by-election, a decision that followed a series of private meetings with President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
KANU Secretary-General George Wainaina confirmed Moi’s withdrawal, stating that the independence-era party would not field any candidate in the contest, effectively clearing the path for UDA’s Kiprono Cheburet Chemitei and five other aspirants.
“This decision reflects the spirit of consultation and dialogue that defines our national politics. We remain committed to unity and peace across the country,” Wainaina said in a brief statement.
Behind the Scenes: The Ruto-Moi Meeting
Sources close to both leaders revealed that President Ruto and Gideon Moi had held three private meetings over the past two weeks in what insiders describe as a “reconciliation push” aimed at easing long-standing political tensions between the two families.
According to those familiar with the talks, President Ruto urged Moi to withdraw from the race in favour of UDA’s candidate, emphasizing the need to “avoid unnecessary political divisions in the Rift Valley region.”
The move is widely interpreted as part of Ruto’s broader effort to consolidate his political base in the Rift Valley a region that has often seen rivalry between KANU’s old guard and Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Chaos and Disappointment on the Ground
Even as news of Moi’s withdrawal spread, the decision sparked mixed emotions in Baringo.
Earlier Thursday, UDA candidate Kiprono Chemitei’s convoy came under attack by agitated KANU supporters near the Monument area in Kabarnet. The confrontation turned chaotic, forcing Chemitei to flee via helicopter from Kiptilit to the IEBC offices, where he later submitted his nomination papers under heavy security presence.
KANU supporters, who had gathered in anticipation of Gideon Moi’s arrival at Kabarnet Airstrip, were left stunned and disappointed when word broke that he would not be appearing. Many said they had hoped Moi’s return would revive the party’s influence in a county once considered the bedrock of the Moi political dynasty.
“We came here expecting to see Gideon submit his papers. This feels like betrayal,” lamented Josiah Kibet, a boda boda rider from Kabartonjo. “KANU was born here, and now we have no one in the race.”
KANU’s Calculated Retreat
KANU’s earlier statement last week had painted a picture of renewed ambition, announcing Gideon Moi’s candidacy as a “commitment to visionary, people-centered leadership.” His withdrawal marks a strategic shift for the party, which has struggled to reclaim its influence in the wake of Kenya’s new political realignments.
Political analysts say Moi’s decision could signal a new phase of cooperation between him and President Ruto both of whom hail from Rift Valley’s political elite but have had a tense history since the 2022 General Election.
“Gideon Moi’s withdrawal is more than just stepping out of a by-election it’s symbolic,” noted political analyst Prof. Edward Kiplagat. “It suggests a détente between KANU and UDA, and possibly an understanding about the 2027 political direction.”
KANU’s internal sources hinted that Moi’s move was also influenced by advice from senior party elders, who reportedly urged him to preserve his national stature rather than engage in what they termed a “localized political contest.”
The Late Cheptumo’s Shadow
The Baringo Senate seat fell vacant following the death of Senator William Cheptumo on February 16, 2025.
Cheptumo, who had defeated Moi in the 2022 General Election, was serving his first term before succumbing to illness while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital. His death reignited old rivalries in Baringo, as both KANU and UDA mobilized to claim the symbolic seat.
Cheptumo’s legacy marked by his development record and vocal defense of devolution remains deeply felt across the county. His passing not only created a political vacuum but also exposed divisions within the local leadership as factions scrambled for control.
A Calculated Political Move
Moi’s withdrawal, insiders say, is also part of a long-term strategy to reposition himself nationally. By stepping aside from a potentially bruising local race, he may be seeking to rebuild alliances and regain political relevance ahead of 2027.
For President Ruto, the move could further solidify UDA’s dominance in the Rift Valley, strengthening his hold on a region that forms the cornerstone of his political base.
“Politics is about timing,” observed Prof. Kiplagat. “Gideon has realized that engaging Ruto politically right now might be more beneficial through negotiation than confrontation.”
