Azimio La Umoja-One Kenya Coalition Co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka now says that former President Uhuru Kenyatta should close ranks with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Speaking exclusively to TV47’s Elizabeth Mutuku, Kalonzo said that if Uhuru was able to put aside past differences he had with current President William Ruto and have a ‘handshake’ with him, then Gachagua should not be left behind, for the benefit of the country’s harmony.

“President Uhuru Kenyatta is my brother, I have a lot of respect for him. He stands above all these confusion. And I know his wish is, his name should not be dragged into these [dirty politics],” Kalonzo, who is also the Wiper Party leader, said. “My advice to him is, if he can meet William Ruto there is no harm in him meeting Gachagua. So that his name stays above all these.”

Asked is he was privy to a recent meeting between Uhuru and Ruto, the former vice president said that Uhuru — who is also the Azimio coalition chairperson — was clear with him.

“And whoever needs advice from Uhuru, if it is William Ruto, he can go and seek the advice. Uhuru was very clear, he told Ruto that the country needs a strong opposition. He told him that this country is reeling under the burden of over taxation where companies are moving out of Kenya.”

Days after the meeting between Uhuru and Ruto, which caught many Kenyans by surprise, President Ruto announced a Cabinet reshuffle and made new appointments, with Uhuru’s allies reaping big.

Former Health Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mutahi Kagwe was nominated as the CS for Agriculture. Former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo was nominated as the CS for ICT and Digital Economy, while former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui was nominated to take over the Trade and Investment docket.

Former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriiithi was named the Board Chair at the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

Political commentators have argued that Uhuru had a direct hand in the appointment of his allies in President Ruto’s government.