Uhuru Sends Message to Kenyans as He Reflects on 2022 Election Decision

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has reflected on the political divisions that followed the 2022 General Election, saying he has forgiven residents of the Mt Kenya region for choosing a different presidential candidate from the one he supported.

Speaking on Monday, October 26, during celebrations marking his 65th birthday, Uhuru used the occasion to appeal for unity, forgiveness and peaceful political engagement as the country moves towards the 2027 elections.

The former Head of State had backed the late Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential race after his political relationship with then Deputy President William Ruto deteriorated.

However, a significant number of voters in Mt Kenya rejected Uhuru’s preferred candidate and supported Ruto, who contested on a United Democratic Alliance ticket and went on to win the election.

Addressing the region’s political choices, Uhuru said he had already put the disagreement behind him but cautioned voters against repeating what he viewed as a mistake.

“I forgave you [Mt Kenya] long ago. To err is not a mistake, but to repeat it,” he said during an interview with a local vernacular radio station.

He also called on political leaders to work together and respond to the wishes of ordinary citizens instead of allowing personal differences to divide communities.

Uhuru’s remarks come as political leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the next General Election, with alliances and possible presidential contenders expected to shape national debate in the coming months.

Beyond electoral politics, the former president urged Kenyans to maintain peaceful relationships even when they disagree. He said forgiveness was necessary because misunderstandings and grievances were inevitable, including among political leaders.

“Everyone wrongs each other. Even I, personally, have been wronged. Let’s learn to forgive each other,” he said.

Uhuru also warned against insults and hostility, urging residents to remain calm, love one another and cooperate despite the country’s challenges.

“The country is bigger than anybody, including myself,” he stated, emphasising that national interests should come before individual ambitions.

The former president further called on Kenyans to protect peace and build a country that future generations could be proud of. He said lasting progress would require people to resolve disputes through dialogue rather than deepen existing divisions.

As he marked another year of life, Uhuru thanked those who remembered his birthday and said he continued praying for the country and its people.

His message combined reflection on the 2022 political contest with an appeal for national unity, although his warning about repeating past mistakes is likely to draw attention as the 2027 elections approach.

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