Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-28 03:30:16
Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has set his sights on the 2027 presidential elections, making his intentions clear through a series of strategic moves that have raised eyebrows within the ruling party. His outreach to various political figures across party lines has sparked speculation about his future plans and ambitions.
Political observers have taken note of El-Rufai’s early politicking for the upcoming general elections, which has been more active and visible compared to other politicians who are also eyeing key positions in the 2027 polls. His interactions with notable figures such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former colleagues like Femi Fani-Kayode, and visits to leaders within the APC and opposition parties have not gone unnoticed.
The former governor’s visit to the national secretariat of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he met with party leaders, has fueled rumors of a possible defection from the APC. However, his spokesperson dismissed these speculations, emphasizing that the visits were merely social interactions and not indicative of a political shift.
El-Rufai’s proactive approach and strategic alliances have positioned him as a potential contender for the presidency, but not without facing criticism and dissent within the northern political landscape. Some have raised concerns about his ability to unify a diverse nation given the ethnic and religious tensions that marked his tenure as governor.
Despite these challenges, supporters of El-Rufai see his reformist agenda and focus on development as strengths that could appeal to a broader audience. His willingness to engage with opposition parties and build alliances underscores his ambition and determination to pursue higher office.
Amidst debates about the unwritten rotational arrangement of the presidency between the North and South, El-Rufai’s supporters argue that competence, vision, and leadership should take precedence over regional considerations. They believe that strong opposition voices are essential for a functioning democracy and that El-Rufai’s actions are part of a broader strategy to navigate the political landscape.
As El-Rufai continues to make his intentions known and reach out to key stakeholders, his bold moves have stirred discussions about the timing and implications of his political maneuvers. Some view his consultations as a calculated effort to position himself for a potential presidential bid, while others caution against premature campaigning and urge a focus on governance and delivering on promises.
In the complex world of Nigerian politics, Nasir El-Rufai has emerged as a prominent figure with ambitions that could reshape the country’s political landscape. Whether he ultimately decides to run for president in 2027 remains to be seen, but his actions and alliances suggest a leader determined to make his mark on the national stage.
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