President William Ruto and KANU chairman Gideon Moi have entered open political conflict this week. This follows months of apparent reconciliation seen at Kabarak in 2025.
Ruto accused Gideon of betrayal and using media linked to the Moi family to spread propaganda against the government. KANU responded through Secretary General George Wainaina, who said promises reached during talks were not fulfilled.
KANU Communications Director Manasse Nyainda said the party withdrew from the Baringo Senate by-election following Ruto's request. Analysts say the dispute marks early steps in the 2027 general election race.
Their relationship began under the mentorship of late President Daniel arap Moi, who politically nurtured Ruto since the 1990s. Gideon took his father's seat in Baringo Central in 2002.