The Complicated Legacy of a Former President Shapes Kenyan Politics

Legacy of Former President Continues to Shape Kenya’s Political Landscape
Nearly a decade after leaving office, the legacy of former President Uhuru Kenyatta remains a potent and polarizing force in Kenyan politics, continuing to influence the nation’s delicate ethnic alliances and economic direction. As the current administration of President William Ruto navigates complex challenges, the shadow of his predecessor looms large, with Kenyatta’s political maneuvers and enduring support base presenting both an obstacle and a balancing act for the sitting government. This enduring influence underscores the complex, long-term impact of presidential legacies in Kenya’s vibrant democracy.
The former president’s legacy is a study in contrasts. He is credited with overseeing massive infrastructure projects, most notably the Chinese-built Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), which modernized the country’s logistics but also significantly increased the national debt. His final term was defined by a dramatic political realignment—the Handshake—with his former rival, Raila Odinga, which ensured stability but fractured his original political coalition and ultimately paved the way for Ruto’s ascent. This has left a complicated inheritance, with his supporters pointing to his development record and his detractors criticizing his economic management.
President Ruto’s administration has deliberately distanced itself from Kenyatta’s policies, particularly on fiscal matters, championing a Bottom-Up economic model in contrast to the large-scale, debt-fueled projects of the past. However, the former president’s quiet but active role in opposition politics, including his tacit support for anti-government protests, demonstrates his retained kingmaking power. This has forced the Ruto government to carefully calibrate its actions, often navigating around the unspoken influence of the Kenyatta political and business network.
The long-term impact of the Kenyatta legacy will be defined by how it shapes Kenya’s political evolution. His continued presence challenges the notion of a clean break between administrations and highlights the informal power structures that persist beyond state house. As the country moves toward its next electoral cycle, the alignment—or confrontation—with the Kenyatta dynasty will be a primary factor determining the political fortunes of all major players. The enduring influence of a former leader from his private retirement confirms that in Kenyan politics, leaving office does not always mean leaving the stage.