Kenyan leaders face internal political disputes and regional challenges

Kenyan President William Ruto announced plans to reopen the border with Somalia in April, which has been closed for 15 years. This move comes as he faces criticism from within his own political circle.

Ruto's deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, publicly criticized the president, saying he has 'failed northern Kenya.' Gachagua also made a separate pledge to make education free in 2027 if families in the Mt Kenya region have six children. Meanwhile, reports indicate political figures in the Mt Kenya region are distancing themselves from Ruto's UDA party ahead of the 2027 elections, with allies of Ruto and Gachagua clashing over influence.