After 20 years, Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi could once again assume the role of second-in-command of the country.
Mudabadi’s name has been floated as a possible successor as Vice President Ligati Gachagua faces impeachment.
Political risk analyst Dismas Mokua believes the Minister of Foreign Affairs is well-suited for the role due to his extensive experience in the civil service and deep understanding of Kenya’s political landscape.
“He is head and shoulders above other candidates. If President William Ruto appoints Musalia Mudavadi as his vice president, it will dismantle tribal political alliances in Kenya and usher in a new era of accountability. It will come, and meritocracy will be at the heart of public service,” Mokua said.
Analysts highlight Mudavadi’s qualifications, including his academic background, public sector experience and understanding of governance.
“Mr. Musalia is a minister in Moi’s cabinet, a member of parliament, and is known for his loyalty. Don’t forget that Mr. Moi appointed him vice president when he stepped down,” he added.
Mokua said Mudabadi’s possible appointment would bring several benefits, including state support and the ability to increase domestic and international credibility.
“Mr Ruto needs a deputy who can help him tackle his economic challenges, and Mr Musalia is the perfect fit given his experience as finance minister. He has political ambitions but also a track record of loyalty. , understand the national strategy.”
Mokua also suggested that had things gone differently, Mudabadi could have been Ruto’s running mate in 2022. Mr Mudavadi’s decision to join Mr Ruto in the 2022 elections was crucial, shifting momentum in Mr Ruto’s favor.
Analysts agree that the alliance with Ruto and the formation of the Kenya Kwanzaa Alliance has strengthened his position among voters.
career as a politician
Mudabadi currently holds the concurrent positions of Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs and Diaspora Affairs.
He served as Kenya’s seventh vice president for 60 days in 2002 and as deputy prime minister from 2008 to 2013.
He began his political career at the age of 28 and served as the Member of Parliament for the Sabathia constituency from 1989 to 2002 and from 2007 to 2013. In 2013, he ran for president on the Amani National Congress (ANC) ticket, but lost.
As head of the Kenya Kwanzaa Alliance, Mr Mudavadi held various cabinet positions including finance, agriculture, transport and local government.
Stay informed. Subscribe to newsletter
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Land Economics from the University of Nairobi and is a member of the Kenya Society of Surveyors. In 2022, he received an honorary doctorate in peace and sustainable development from Masinde Muliro University.
Mudabadi, the only son of Moses and Hannah Mudabadi, is married to Tessie Mudabadi, and the two have three children.
Mudavadi’s journey may be on the verge of a new chapter as the political spotlight shines on him once again.
