Ruto Allies Launch Dual Strategy to Reclaim Mt Kenya Ahead of 2027 Election

President William Ruto’s allies have initiated a multifaceted campaign to regain political ground in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 general election. 

The initiative follows a series of strategic meetings held over the weekend in Murang’a, Kirinyaga, and Nyeri counties, signalling a concerted effort by the Kenya Kwanza coalition to consolidate its base in a region that proved pivotal in Ruto's 2022 victory. The campaign strategy is being executed by two distinct factions within the ruling coalition. 

One faction, led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo, is concentrating on enhancing service delivery and bolstering economic empowerment initiatives. The second faction, under the guidance of The Service Party's Mwangi Kiunjuri, is focused on grassroots mobilisation and refining political messaging. 

A shared objective unites both groups: to counteract the growing influence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has become a vocal critic of the Ruto administration after his impeachment in late 2024. The core strategy involves shifting the focus from political rhetoric to demonstrable development outcomes. Kindiki, speaking at Kimorori grounds in Maragua Constituency, emphasised the significance of economic empowerment as a means of re-engaging voters. 

"We are not here to trade insults or respond to provocations. Our focus is on delivering results that speak for themselves," Kindiki said. 

He also announced infrastructure projects, including road upgrades, the establishment of a new Kenya Medical Training College campus, and a Sh1.1 billion electricity connectivity programme aimed at benefiting over 16,000 households. Ichung’wah echoed this sentiment, indicating that the coalition intends to prioritise communicating its accomplishments over engaging in confrontations. 

"We will concentrate on communicating our success stories rather than reacting to diversionary noise," Ichung’wah said, referencing Gachagua's recent remarks from the United States, where he declared Mt Kenya was "gone for good" and pledged to forge new alliances to challenge Ruto's leadership.

Kiunjuri adopted a more assertive position, accusing Gachagua of inciting voters and undermining national unity. He defended the impeachment of the former deputy president as justified and announced plans to lobby against legislation perceived to be detrimental to the interests of the Mt Kenya region. Kiunjuri revealed that the coalition is actively seeking alliances with opposition figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, George Natembeya, and Eugene Wamalwa, to broaden its appeal and create a more inclusive political front. 

Notably, the team is also targeting Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, a former Ruto protégé who has recently distanced himself from the administration. Communication strategy has emerged as a key area of concern. Elected leaders have voiced concerns about the government’s ability to effectively communicate its achievements. Mwea MP Mary Maingi criticises the disjointed messaging approach, noting that Mt Kenya cabinet members have not adequately defended the administration’s track record. 

"We have retreated to our constituencies to defend our service delivery as individuals," Maingi said, calling for a more coordinated approach.

The broader political landscape adds urgency to these efforts. With Gachagua positioning himself as a potential opposition candidate and garnering support across various ethnic and regional lines, the stakes are high for Kenya Kwanza. Political analysts suggest that failure to regain support in Mt Kenya could substantially weaken Ruto’s re-election prospects, particularly given the region’s historic importance as a key determinant in national elections.

In response, Kindiki has committed to a renewed outreach campaign, which will include an extensive presidential tour of Mt Kenya starting next month.