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Eugene Wamalwa casts doubts on Ruto’s chances of succeeding Uhuru


By virtue of being the second in command, and also considering his deep pockets, extensive network, and popularity in his Rift Valley backyard, William Ruto is perceived by political analysts as among favorites to become the next President of Kenya when President Uhuru Kenyatta retires in 2022.

But Devolution Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa begs to differ.

While addressing a recent Western Kenya leaders forum, the Cabinet Secretary seemingly cast doubts on Ruto’s chances of succeeding President Kenyatta in 2022.

The Cabinet Secretary pointed out that the country’s history shows that it is difficult for the deputy president to succeed his boss.

“Kalonzo Musyoka surprised me the other day. He said ‘If I’m the tenth vice president Kenya has had and there have been ten vice-presidents, and out of the 10 , only one succeeded in succeeding the president'” Wamalwa said.

“I don’t know if you know who that guy (who succeeded in succeeding the president) is? Daniel Toroitich arap Moi. But it was due to death, you know that. Maybe if there was an election, it might not have worked (for Moi to succeed Mzee Jomo Kenyatta),” he further said.

Interestingly, Ruto recently announced that he had closed ranks with his long-term political nemesis Raila Odinga who is also understood to be keen on contesting the 2022 presidential elections.

Opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka, Musalia Mudavadi, Moses Wetangula and Wycliffe Oparanya are also among those that have publicly hinted their presidential ambitions.