Rodgers Kipembe Mpuru has sparked political debate after claiming that Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho is quietly positioning himself for a much bigger role in President William Ruto’s government.
According to Mpuru, Joho is working to convince President Ruto that he is suitable for the position of Deputy President should the opportunity arise.
He argued that Joho’s growing visibility within government is not accidental but part of a calculated political strategy.
Mpuru claimed that Joho is leveraging his immense personal wealth to project influence and political strength.
He alleged that the Mining CS is currently the wealthiest Cabinet Secretary, a factor Mpuru believes Joho is using to signal his ability to finance large-scale political mobilisation.
The outspoken commentator further alleged that Joho has been telling allies that he enjoys backing from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
Mpuru claimed Joho is presenting himself to President Ruto as a bridge between the Kenya Kwanza administration and ODM supporters.
According to Mpuru, Joho is said to be assuring Ruto that he can deliver up to five million votes, mainly from ODM-leaning regions and the Coast.
He argued that such claims are meant to make Joho appear indispensable ahead of future political realignments.
Mpuru questioned whether Joho genuinely commands such influence within ODM, noting that the party has recently shown internal divisions over cooperation with the ruling coalition.
He suggested that Joho’s claims may be exaggerated to strengthen his bargaining power within government.
The remarks come at a time when Kenya’s political landscape remains fluid following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Speculation over who could emerge as a long-term replacement has intensified across political circles.
Mpuru warned that Joho’s alleged ambitions could deepen tensions within ODM, especially among leaders opposed to working closely with President Ruto. He argued that such moves risk portraying the party as divided and opportunistic.
While Joho has not publicly responded to Mpuru’s claims, the comments have reignited debate over loyalty, ambition, and succession politics within the broad-based government.