Can an underdog, Mutahi Kagwe, be the next deputy president?

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political future hangs in the balance as the Senate debates his impeachment. With legal efforts to halt the process falling short, his position remains precarious.

If Gachagua is removed, speculation is rife about his potential successor, with various regions such as Mount Kenya West, Mount Kenya East, and Aberdare West being key in this political power play.

Among the names floated as frontrunners are Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri.

Other possible contenders include Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, and former Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.

While the spotlight has largely been on high-profile figures like Waiguru and Kindiki, some political analysts see Mutahi Kagwe as a dark horse.

The former Health CS has been relatively silent since leaving office, but his name is resurfacing in discussions about the Deputy President role.

Constitutional lawyer Shadrack Wambui suggests that selecting a new Deputy President would require broader consultation beyond just the President.

“The naming of a new DP now does not depend on the President alone. Remember, we have a broad-based government, and Raila Odinga has to contribute to the decision,” Wambui explained, noting Kagwe's close ties with both former President Uhuru Kenyatta and Odinga. These relationships, according to Wambui, could work in Kagwe’s favor.

Kagwe's political and public service career, particularly his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, is also being viewed as a potential asset.

Political career

His political journey spans over two decades, beginning in 2002 when he was elected as the MP for Mukurweini Constituency under the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC). During his tenure, he chaired the parliamentary committee on finance, trade, tourism, and planning. In 2005, he was appointed as the Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT).

Later, Kagwe served as Nyeri County’s first senator from 2013 to 2017. His bid for the Nyeri governorship in 2017 was unsuccessful. Before he entered politics, Kagwe had a rich career in the private sector, owning an independent publishing house and a public relations firm.

He also held a senior role at Standard Media Group, eventually rising to the position of commercial director.

Although Kagwe has kept a low profile since leaving public office, his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, combined with his extensive political and professional background, continues to be remembered.

His reserved approach may be a calculated strategy, positioning him as a viable candidate should the right moment present itself.

In a political landscape where unpredictability is the norm, Kagwe’s experience, key political relationships, and demonstrated leadership in times of crisis could make him a formidable contender for the Deputy President role.

While the limelight currently shines on more prominent figures, Mutahi Kagwe may be poised for a political comeback when the opportunity arises.