NYERI, Kenya- President William Ruto has turned to a familiar political playbook in a bid to reassure and woo Mt Kenya leaders at Sagana State Lodge, hosting 14,000 UDA delegates from the region.
The move comes after his fallout with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which analysts say has created cracks in his once-solid political stronghold.
Sagana State Lodge has long been a symbolic political venue in Mt Kenya, notably used by former President Uhuru Kenyatta to host regional leaders and delegates when campaigning for Raila Odinga in 2022.
At the time, Uhuru had also begun to lose touch with his political backyard, a factor that contributed to his inability to secure victory.
Today, observers note, Ruto appears to be using the same approach, massive gatherings, personal reassurance, and appeals to development, to reconnect with a key constituency that gave him his 2022 majority.
Addressing delegates, Ruto emphasized political inclusion and delivery.
“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,” he said.
He further stressed that leaders should be judged on results 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.
Ruto also dismissed opposition narratives, noting that their focus is 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,” the President said.
Development Projects as Political Messaging
In a nod to tangible achievements, Ruto highlighted Talanta Stadium and the Boma Convention Centre as examples of government investment aimed at development and economic opportunity.
“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,” Ruto told delegates, framing UDA as a vehicle for long-term development and continuity rather than a personal project.
Regional Leaders Attend
The gathering included Embu Governor Cecile Mbarire, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa, and other county leaders, underscoring the high stakes for Ruto in regaining lost ground after the Gachagua split.
Analysts note that Mt Kenya remains a crucial region in determining political fortunes, and Ruto’s large-scale outreach reflects the importance of direct engagement with grassroots delegates.
Interestingly, his Deputy Kithure Kindiki, was absent during the meeting.
Historical Echoes and Political Strategy
Political commentators say the parallels to Kenyatta’s Sagana gatherings are striking.
Then, Uhuru faced diminishing influence in his home region and sought to reconnect through mass meetings and targeted reassurance, yet he ultimately failed to secure the desired political outcomes.
Ruto’s approach, observers say, reassuring Mt Kenya leaders, emphasizing performance, and highlighting development, indicates he is aware of the stakes and is trying to preempt any erosion of his support base in the lead-up to coalition talks with ODM and the 2027 elections.
