President William Ruto on Sunday made a return to the Mt Kenya region, firmly dismissing speculation that his political support in the influential bloc is dwindling. He maintained that his leadership will ultimately be judged by his performance in office as the country looks ahead to the 2027 General Election. Addressing congregants during a church service in Othaya Constituency, Nyeri County, the President said attempts by political rivals to portray a rift between him and the people of Mt Kenya would not succeed. He described such narratives as propaganda, insisting that his bond with the region remains strong and intact.
Ruto told residents that Kenyans would evaluate his administration based on tangible results rather than political noise, stressing that development delivery should be the true yardstick of leadership. His visit comes at a time of shifting political dynamics in Mt Kenya, with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua intensifying efforts to consolidate regional support under the United Democratic Congress Party (DCP) as part of a broader opposition coalition.
Unfazed by the developments, President Ruto brushed off claims of declining popularity, arguing that politics founded on misinformation cannot erase years of political partnership and trust. He reminded locals that Mt Kenya played a decisive role in his election victory and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to delivering on its promises to the region.
The President also aimed at his critics, particularly his former deputy, accusing them of lacking a clear development agenda and relying instead on populist rhetoric. He expressed confidence that his track record would speak for itself when voters head to the polls. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki supported the President’s remarks, saying that political distractions would not derail the government’s development plans for Mt Kenya and the rest of the country.
Meanwhile, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga stirred political discussion during the service after publicly reaffirming his loyalty to President Ruto. Often perceived as leaning toward Mr Gachagua, Governor Kahiga declared that President Ruto remains his leader and dismissed claims of divided allegiance. He further clarified that he is still a committed member of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), stating that his party membership is fully up to date.
President Ruto is expected to continue his stay in Nyeri County over the next two days as he undertakes additional engagements in the Mt Kenya region, against the backdrop of heightened political activity and emerging alliances.
