Feature By Antony Njuguna - MKU Mass Communication student.

It is the political equivalent of walking a tightrope while juggling grenades. As President William Ruto eyes a second term, the one decision that could define his legacy and the fate of the nation has turned into a complex puzzle with no perfect solution. Welcome to the headache that is choosing a running mate.

With the political fallout in the Mt. Kenya region leaving the vote bloc fragmented, President Ruto faces a delicate balancing act. He must either stick with DP Kithure Kindiki to salvage the East or ditch him to reclaim the West risking rebellion from either side. But the dilemma doesn't stop at "Murima." From the Coast demanding CS Joho to the Lake region salivating for an ODM running mate, and the Western bloc flexing its muscles, the President's choice is a high-stakes game of political chess where every move triggers a counter-move.

The "Murima" dilemma: A double-edged sword
The political landscape in the Mount Kenya region is no longer a monolith. The "Mountain" appears to have largely decamped with former DP Rigathi Gachagua, particularly in the populous counties of Kiambu, Murang'a, Kirinyaga, Nyeri, and Nyandarua.

This exodus leaves President Ruto in a precarious position. Maintaining DP Kindiki on the ticket offers little hope of winning back the lost votes, making it feel like "forcing a camel through the eye of a needle" to secure support in Mt. Kenya East. Yet, ditching Kindiki for a Mount Kenya West heavyweight such as Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro or Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru would be perceived as a betrayal of the East, potentially sparking a political rebellion.

The regional tug-of-war:
The headache extends far beyond the highlands.

The Coast: Leaders from the coastal region are unequivocal: they believe it is their time to produce the President's running mate. Failing to pick CS Hassan Joho, their preferred candidate, could alienate a region that feels neglected.

The Lake: The ODM stronghold is also restless. With heavyweights like ODM leader Dr. Oburu Oginga, CS John Mbadi, and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga salivating for the seat, choosing one of them secures the ODM base. However, choosing a Lake leader risks alienating the Mt. Kenya East base loyal to Kindiki.

The Western question: The Luhya community presents another layer. While Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, Speaker Moses Wetangula, and CS Wycliffe Oparanya all feel entitled to reciprocation for their support, it is the potential inclusion of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna that sparks curiosity. A Sifuna pick could sway the Gen-Zs, but would the youth follow?

The Kalonzo factor:
Veteran politician Kalonzo Musyoka is often touted as an ideal choice, but analysts question his ability to deliver numbers. With his influence limited to Ukambani and parts of the Coast—regions with historically low voter turnout—a Kalonzo pick might be a "spoiled vote" on the table for Ruto.


The ghost of fallouts:
Historically, the DP's seat has been a poisoned chalice. From President Moi and Kibaki firing their VPs at will to the explosive fallout between Uhuru Kenyatta and Ruto, the position is delicate. The recent impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua serves as a stark warning. Gachagua commands over 80% of the Murima votes; if his DCP party gains a majority in Parliament, Ruto could face a hostile legislature that blocks his agenda.


The choice of a running mate is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma. It is a decision that balances regional interests, historical grievances, and future ambitions. The consequences of this choice will not just determine who sits in the second highest office, but will reverberate through the lives of ordinary Kenyans. The headache remains solely in the hands of President William Ruto and his advisors and as the clock ticks toward August, the nation waits to see which way the pendulum swings.
Kind regards, 
Antony Mbui.