KANU has announced its support for President Uhuru Kenyatta's bid for a second term. According to West Pokot Senator John Lonyangapuo, the party will ensure the president receives continued support and votes in the Rift Valley region during the August elections.
A meeting between President Kenyatta, Mzee Moi, KANU chairman Gideon Moi, and Senator Lonyangapuo took place at Moi's residence in Nairobi. Senator Lonyangapuo stated,
The president discussed a lot of issues with Mzee. Most importantly, he sought his support and in turn Mzee asked him to ensure the elections would not drift the nation apart.
KANU is set to hold its National Executive Council meeting to discuss the issue of candidacy. The party had previously supported President Kenyatta's presidential bid.
The potential merger between KANU and Jubilee may lead to increased political tension in the Rift Valley region, as candidates from both parties compete for the same seats. For instance, Jubilee's Kipchumba Murkomen will run against KANU's David Kimaiyo for the Elgeyo Marakwet senate seat.
KANU's influence in the Rift Valley region is significant, making it an area of interest for the opposition as well. During the NASA inauguration at the Bomas of Kenya, KANU secretary general Nick Salat attended and initially indicated that KANU would support NASA, but his remarks were met with mixed reactions from party members.
