President William Ruto has dismissed claims that he risks losing political support in the Mt Kenya region, insisting his administration remains firmly engaged with the vote rich bloc ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking in Nyeri on Thursday, Ruto said he would not be intimidated by critics or political messaging aimed at undermining his standing in the region. He emphasized that his relationship with Mt Kenya voters remains intact following their overwhelming support during the 2022 presidential election.
“Some people are making noise, thinking I will abandon the people who voted for me. Am I mad? That is not possible,” Ruto said.
Ruto’s remarks come amid heightened political activity in the region, following a public appearance by former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at a funeral in Kirinyaga.
The meeting was widely interpreted as a symbolic reconciliation between the two leaders, sparking debate over shifting alliances ahead of the next election cycle.
Focus on development and political messaging
During the event, Kenyatta urged residents to reconsider their political choices in future elections, cautioning against what he described as past missteps.
Despite the political undertones, Ruto maintained that his focus remains on development and delivering on promises made to Kenyans. He accused his opponents of attempting to use propaganda and political rhetoric to alienate him from Mt Kenya voters.
“Do they think they can intimidate me with street talk and propaganda? Claims of must go and all that, I will face them head on right here,” he said.
The president reiterated that leadership should be judged based on performance rather than political theatrics, pointing to ongoing government initiatives in agriculture and healthcare.
He cited reforms in the coffee sector as evidence of progress, noting that farmers are beginning to benefit from policy changes implemented by his administration.
“Everyone should be measured by their work. Let those who engage in insults be judged by their insults, and leaders like me by the work we do,” Ruto said.
During his visit, Ruto attended the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa oil consecration ceremony in Nyeri, underscoring what he described as development driven engagements in the region.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga backed the president, defending ongoing collaboration between county leadership and the national government.
“For those asking why I am working with the President, I have answered them. The government is at work. How can we expect development when our job is to disrupt it?” Kahiga said.
Ruto concluded by reaffirming his commitment to delivering results while directly confronting critics, signaling a continued focus on governance as political competition intensifies ahead of 2027.
