Former Interior PS Karanja Kibicho firmly rules out running for office in 2027
By Martin Oduor, May 28, 2026One of the most influential figures of former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration has firmly slammed the door on a potential political comeback.
Dr. Karanja Kibicho, the former ultra-powerful Interior Principal Secretary, has categorically dismissed widespread speculation that he is gearing up to run for political office in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a fiery live television interview on Wednesday night, May 27, 2026, Kibicho did not mince his words when asked if his name would be on the ballot paper come 2027.
For months, political pundits have touted the battle-hardened administrator for various top-tier county and national elective seats.
However, Kibicho used the prime-time broadcast to decisively put those rumours to bed.
“The answer is no,” Kibicho stated flatly.
“I am not going to run for any office.”
The former PS, who was renowned for his firm, no-nonsense grip on the nation’s internal security apparatus, explained that his decision is rooted in a deep personal philosophy regarding the generational transition of power in Kenya.
Kibicho argued that the current political discourse surrounding youth empowerment and the rise of the “Gen Z” political consciousness must go beyond mere lip service.
He challenged ageing politicians to back up their public rhetoric with actual, concrete actions by stepping away from the ballot.
“And the reason is… you know this thing we are talking about Gen Zs, we are talking about youth empowerment, we must actually believe it and practice it,” Kibicho pointed out.
“If it was during those old days, I would be retired because I am past 55.”
Reflecting on his own meteoric rise within the ranks of public service, Kibicho recalled how the late former President Mwai Kibaki entrusted him with a massive docket at a remarkably young age.
He noted that it would be hypocritical of his generation to cling to power when they themselves were beneficiaries of youth-targeted institutional trust.
“Kibaki gave me an opportunity to be a PS when I was 42 years, I think I should allow the 42-year-olds to lead and that’s my reasoning,” Kibicho concluded.
With Kibicho officially bowing out of the 2027 political matrix, his decision sets a rare precedent in a political landscape historically dominated by veteran politicians reluctant to hand over the baton to the younger generation.