In a recent interview alongside Jeff Koinange on Citizen Tv, Moses Kuria confirmed his intention to run for president in the 2027 elections, should they occur. He confidently stated that he possesses all the necessary qualifications for the role. However, he also offered a somewhat unconventional prediction, suggesting that the 2027 election may not be a typical contest but rather a consensus-driven process aimed at preventing national disaster. This statement indicates Kuria's positioning within a school of thought that prioritizes national stability and economic development over potentially divisive political battles.
Kuria's political strategy appears to be one of calculated independence. While currently serving as a Senior Economic Advisor to President William Ruto, a role that gives him direct access to the President, he has not shied away from voicing dissenting opinions. He emphasizes that he provides honest advice to the president, even on sensitive matters such as human rights and the economy, and claims that his counsel is often heeded.
A notable aspect of Kuria's recent pronouncements has been his sharp criticism of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. He has articulated four key areas of concern regarding Gachagua's leadership: honesty, dictatorial tendencies, pettiness, and errors in judgment. Kuria questions Gachagua's honesty, particularly in past appointments, and accuses him of autocratic behavior, attempting to control narratives and personal choices. He also characterizes Gachagua's public statements as petty, focusing on personalities rather than substantive issues, which he believes lowers the standard of leadership. Finally, Kuria argues that Gachagua has made poor political judgments, citing the formation of a party that isolated other leaders and ultimately led to political setbacks.
Beyond political maneuvering, Kuria has recently taken a strong stance against police brutality, a particularly sensitive issue in Kenya. Following the shooting of a hawker, Boniface Kariuki, during anti-police brutality demonstrations, Kuria visited the victim in the hospital and condemned the act as "indefensible no matter the context" [Moses Kuria visits Boniface Kariuki at KNH, condemns police brutality - The Star]. He further decried a "worrying trend of violence," citing abductions, extra-judicial killings, and forced disappearances as incompatible with a democratic state [Moses Kuria visits Boniface Kariuki at KNH, condemns police brutality - The Star]. This outspoken condemnation, especially from a senior government official, adds significant pressure on the government to address systemic issues within the police force.
Kuria has also voiced concerns about the potential for escalating political tensions and violence in Kenya. He specifically referenced the upcoming 25th, likely a memorial for past protest-related violence, urging for peaceful commemorations and warning against the use of "goons" in political demonstrations. He cautioned that such practices could lead to a dangerous escalation, drawing parallels to the Rwandan genocide, a stark warning about the fragility of peace.
Moses Kuria remains a complex and often controversial figure in Kenyan politics. His presidential ambitions, his willingness to criticize even within his own government, and his strong pronouncements on issues like police brutality and national unity, paint a picture of a leader seeking to shape the national discourse. Whether he can successfully navigate the intricate landscape of Kenyan politics and realize his ambitions remains to be seen. However, his voice continues to be a significant force in shaping the country's political trajectory.
