NAIROBI, Kenya- President William Ruto has moved to reassure Mt Kenya leaders and delegates that their political stake is intact during a UDA gathering at Sagana State Lodge in Nyeri County, where he hosted 20,000 delegates from the region.
The event comes as the party prepares for power-sharing negotiations with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.
NReassuring Mt Kenya is crucial for President Ruto, as the region that delivered him a decisive majority in the 2022 election now faces political uncertainty following his fallout with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
“You have not lost anything because we are in a broad-based government. The people of Mt Kenya ended tribalism by voting for me. You voted for me because I had a plan and an agenda,” the President said.
Ruto further stressed that leaders should be evaluated on achievements rather than rhetoric.
“The only thing you shall ask me is what I have delivered. Every leader should be elected based on what they have done,” he said.
Nyeri County UDA Grassroots Leaders’ Meeting, Sagana State Lodge x.com/i/broadcasts/1…
Addressing the delegates, Ruto further emphasized inclusion and results over tribal politics.
The President also stressed performance and delivery as the basis for leadership, signaling a shift from rhetoric to tangible accomplishments.
“The only thing you shall ask me is what I have delivered. Every leader should be elected based on what they have done,” he pointed out.
Dismissive of the opposition, Ruto noted that detractors are primarily focused on removing him from power in 2027.
“Everyone must show their track record. We shall not be threatened. We are focused. I have hope that we can take this country to the first world. It will not take long,” Ruto asserted.
He cited key development projects, including Talanta Stadium and the Boma Convention Centre, as evidence of the government’s commitment to local development and infrastructure growth.
“This political party is important because to transform a nation goes beyond one person. A political party is the most important instrument in making sure we have continuity. Inside a political party, we unite,” he said.
He further reassured regional leaders, saying, “I pray that our friendship continues. The work you gave me, I will deliver. I am not a person of war. Don’t worry.”
The event drew a turnout of Mt Kenya political figures allied to him, including Embu Governor Cecile Mbarire, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa, and other county officials, reflecting the high stakes of UDA’s grassroots engagement and signaling broad regional alignment ahead of coalition negotiations with ODM.
Political analysts view the Sagana gathering as part of Ruto’s strategy to secure Mt Kenya’s backing while entering sensitive coalition talks.
