KANU party chairman Gideon Moi has officially withdrawn from the Baringo Senatorial by-election, just days after announcing his candidacy a decision that has significantly reshaped the political dynamics in the Rift Valley region.
KANU Secretary General George Wainaina confirmed on Thursday that the party would not be fielding a candidate in the November 27 by-election, effectively giving the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) a clear run at the seat.
Following the announcement, Moi, along with several Baringo County Members of Parliament, held a meeting with President William Ruto at State House in Nairobi.
The meeting is believed to have focused on the Baringo by-election and broader national issues, amid speculation of behind-the-scenes negotiations leading to Moi’s withdrawal.
Moi was accompanied by Wainaina and former Baringo Woman Representative Gladwell Cheruiyot during the State House visit.
Despite his earlier declaration to contest, Moi failed to submit his nomination papers to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) by the October 9 deadline.
He had been scheduled to present his papers between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm, but did not appear prompting protests from his supporters who had gathered at Baringo Airstrip in anticipation.
The sudden move has drawn mixed reactions in his Kabarnet stronghold, with many questioning the political implications of his decision and what it means for KANU’s future in the region.
Moi’s entry into the race had initially stirred anxiety within UDA, as his comeback could have posed a significant challenge to Ruto’s influence in the Rift Valley.
His eventual withdrawal, however, appears to have de-escalated the contest.
The former senator had previously positioned himself as a vocal critic of the current administration, often using media platforms linked to the Standard Group a company associated with his family to highlight government shortcomings.
Gideon Moi lost the Baringo Senate seat in the 2022 General Election to the late William Cheptumo, during a wave that saw UDA dominate across the Rift Valley.
In the upcoming by-election, UDA will be represented by Vincent Chemitei.
Alex Mwakideu denies being served hours after allegedly being sued by Robert Burale
