President William Ruto and Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta before they fell out. Photo/BBC
By Newsflash Writer
Politics is often a game of resilience, where those who endure the toughest battles emerge stronger.
In Kenya, several politicians have turned adversity into a stepping stone to national prominence.
From court battles and political betrayals to impeachment and sidelining, these leaders have transformed their struggles into political capital, ultimately cementing their positions in the national arena.
Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto: The ICC case that defined their political careers
In 2010, the International Criminal Court (ICC) indicted Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the 2007-2008 post-election violence. The charges threatened to end their political careers before they even took off. However, instead of breaking them, the ICC cases strengthened their resolve and political bond.
Facing what they termed as external victimization, Kenyatta and Ruto capitalized on public sympathy, positioning themselves as defenders of Kenya’s sovereignty. “Their case became a rallying point for their political ambitions,” says political analyst Joyce Kamuren. “By portraying themselves as victims of a Western agenda, they galvanized support across ethnic lines.”
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In 2013, despite global pressure, the duo rode the wave of sympathy to win the presidency. Kenyatta became president, with Ruto as his deputy. Though their relationship later soured, their ability to turn the ICC tribulations into a political advantage remains a defining moment in Kenyan politics.
Ndindi Nyoro: From Budget Chair ouster to national hero
Ndindi Nyoro, the outspoken Kiharu MP, has built his political career on defiance and resilience. Recently, he was dramatically removed as the Chairperson of the National Assembly Budget and Appropriations Committee, an ouster seen by many as orchestrated by senior Kenya Kwanza leaders.
His removal followed accusations by Junet Mohamed and Kimani Ichung’wa that he was favoring Kiharu Constituency in budgetary allocations. However, the move backfired as Nyoro received overwhelming public sympathy.
“His ouster has only elevated his national stature,” says political analyst Gicheru Mwangi. “By appearing to be a victim of political machinations, he has gained admiration from Kenyans who see him as a champion of the common mwananchi.”
With his growing influence and support base, Nyoro is now seen as a key player in the future of Kenya’s politics.
Rigathi Gachagua: From impeachment to Mt Kenya’s political kingpin
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political career has been turbulent, marked by adversity and a dramatic resurgence. His impeachment as Deputy President under President William Ruto’s administration was a major political blow. Yet, this setback has catapulted him to national prominence, solidifying his position as Mt. Kenya’s political kingpin.
Gachagua, who was once dismissed as an unpopular figure within government circles, has rebranded himself as the voice of the Mt. Kenya region and a darling of the masses. His strong opposition to what he perceives as betrayal within the Kenya Kwanza administration has won him significant grassroots support.
“His impeachment was the best thing that ever happened to him politically,” says political commentator Barrack Muluka. “It gave him the perfect opportunity to reclaim the Mt. Kenya vote, positioning himself as the true defender of the region’s interests.”
His newfound political leverage now makes him a key player in Kenya’s 2027 succession politics.
Ali Hassan Joho: Overcoming political victimization
Mombasa’s former governor Ali Hassan Joho faced numerous political hurdles under Uhuru Kenyatta’s presidency. As a fierce critic of the Jubilee administration, Joho was often targeted by state agencies, including being denied access to public functions and facing tax-related investigations.
Despite the challenges, Joho emerged stronger. “Joho turned his victimization into a badge of honor,” explains political analyst Macharia Munene. “By standing up to the government, he solidified his support in the Coast region and became a national political figure.”
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His resilience paid off, making him one of ODM leader Raila Odinga’s most trusted allies and a key figure in national politics.
Babu Owino: Fighting for recognition in ODM
Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has faced political marginalization within his own party, ODM. Despite being a vocal and loyal supporter of Raila Odinga, he has often found himself sidelined by powerful figures within the party.
At one point, Owino openly criticized ODM’s leadership for favoring older politicians over younger leaders like himself. “I have sacrificed everything for this party, yet I am not recognized,” he once lamented.
His outspokenness and defiance have, however, won him public sympathy, especially among the youth. Today, he is one of the most influential young politicians in Kenya, with a strong following both online and on the ground.
Read more: Babu at crossroads as Raila endorses Sakaja for Nairobi 2027 governorship race
Political victimization is often seen as a setback, but in Kenya, it has been a launchpad for some of the most influential leaders. Whether through impeachment, legal battles, or party politics, these figures have used their struggles to win public sympathy, redefine their careers, and shape the country’s political landscape. As history has shown, in Kenyan politics, resilience often trumps adversity.
