Ruto Unshaken: 2027 Win a Sure Bet, No Competition in Sight
President William Ruto has expressed confidence in winning a second term despite ongoing criticism of his administration.
Speaking in his home county of Uasin Gishu, Ruto stated, “I don’t see any competition,” signaling his belief that he will secure a second term in office.
His statement comes amid growing mobilization, following Gen Z-led protests in June 2024 demanding his resignation. What began as opposition to the controversial Finance Bill 2024 quickly evolved into calls for Ruto to step down, with the rallying cry “Ruto Must Go” gaining momentum.
In an unexpected move, Ruto addressed the 2027 elections, acknowledging rising online criticism. “Until now, I haven’t seen any serious competition. The competition is between me and my track record. I haven’t seen anyone else,” he told a crowd in Uasin Gishu on Friday.
He added, “Many believe I’ve failed because things are taking too long, but I inherited a country in a poor state.”
Earlier, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, a strong ally of Ruto, dismissed online calls for Ruto’s removal, saying, “For those saying Ruto Must Go…whether they jump, go down, or sideways, Ruto is not going anywhere.”
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This renewed confidence follows a significant political shift in December when Ruto gained the support of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. In August, Ruto made a strategic move by bringing his main rival, Raila Odinga, into his fold, leading to an end of tensions between the two. He appointed Raila’s allies to key Cabinet positions, including John Mbadi (Treasury), Hassan Joho (Mining), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy), Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and SMEs), and Beatrice Askul (EAC).
In a move reminiscent of the 2018 Uhuru-Raila handshake, Ruto also welcomed former Uhuru allies into his government, including Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), Lee Kinyanjui (Investment, Trade, and Industry), and William Kabogo (Information, Communication, and Digital Economy). Ndiritu Muriithi, former Governor of Laikipia, was appointed Chairperson of the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Board.
With both Uhuru and Raila on his side, Ruto is now looking ahead to the 2027 election. In 2022, Ruto narrowly defeated Raila, who had Uhuru’s backing, by just 200,000 votes.
Currently, Azimio co-principal Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, and Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah have shown interest in challenging Ruto in 2027.
Ruto Unshaken: 2027 Win a Sure Bet, No Competition in Sight
