By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 6 June 2026 - Leaders allied to the Kenya Kwanza administration and the Broad-Based Government on Friday intensified campaigns for President William Ruto's re-election bid, dismissing the opposition as divisive and urging Western Kenya residents to unite behind the Head of State ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a massive empowerment programme for women's groups, youth associations and self-help groups in Khwisero Constituency, Kakamega County, the leaders accused opposition politicians of engaging in endless political rhetoric while the government remained focused on development and economic transformation.
The event was led by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, President Ruto's aide Farouk Kibet, Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka, Bungoma Senator David Wakoli, Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe, Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka and Malava MP David Ndakwa.
The meeting also witnessed early political manoeuvres ahead of the 2027 elections, with some leaders calling for the Deputy President's position to be reserved for the Western region as a reward for the community's growing support for President Ruto.
Speaker Wetang'ula urged residents to reject what he termed politics of hatred and division and instead support leaders championing development.
"We want politics that unite Kenyans and not politics that divide communities. The people of Western Kenya must not be misled by leaders whose agenda is to create confusion and perpetuate unnecessary political contests. President Ruto is working for all Kenyans and deserves support to complete his development agenda," said Wetang'ula.
The Speaker said the Kenya Kwanza administration had rolled out transformative programmes across the country including affordable housing, universal health coverage, road construction and agricultural reforms aimed at uplifting the lives of ordinary citizens.
"We are seeing roads being built, markets being modernised, electricity being expanded and opportunities being created for our young people. These are the issues that matter to wananchi and not endless political noise," he added.
Farouk Kibet launched a scathing attack on opposition leaders, accusing them of attempting to derail government programmes through constant criticism and misinformation.
"The opposition has no agenda for Kenyans. Every day they wake up looking for something to oppose. While President Ruto is busy working and transforming lives, they are busy inciting wananchi and engaging in premature politics," said Kibet.
He challenged residents of Kakamega County and the wider Western region to remain steadfast in supporting President Ruto.
"The President has demonstrated commitment to developing every corner of this country without discrimination. We must stand with him and ensure he secures a second term in office in 2027."
On the controversial decision by the government to allow the establishment of an Ebola treatment and isolation facility at Laikipia Airbase to cater for patients from the United States, the leaders defended the move, arguing that Kenya possessed the expertise and infrastructure required to handle such specialised medical operations.
Kibet dismissed criticism surrounding the facility as politically motivated.
"Kenya is a respected regional and global partner in matters of health security. The decision was informed by experts and international protocols. There is no threat to the safety of Kenyans as some politicians want people to believe," he said.
Governor Lusaka echoed the sentiments, saying Kenya had over the years successfully handled various international health emergencies.
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"We should not politicise matters of public health. Kenya has qualified medical personnel and institutions capable of managing such facilities. The government would never expose its citizens to danger," said Lusaka.
The Bungoma governor further urged Western Kenya residents to consolidate their political influence by supporting President Ruto's administration.
"We have witnessed increased development projects in this region. The best way to secure even more opportunities is by remaining firmly within government and supporting President Ruto's re-election," he said.
The issue of the 2027 succession politics also featured prominently during the gathering, with several leaders insisting that Western Kenya deserved greater representation in the country's top leadership.
Navakholo MP Emmanuel Wangwe said the region's growing support for the Kenya Kwanza administration should be recognised when discussions about the next Deputy President emerge.
"We are mobilising our people to support President Ruto overwhelmingly in 2027. As a region, we also expect our political contribution to be recognised at the highest levels of government," Wangwe said.
Malava MP David Ndakwa argued that Western Kenya had remained loyal to the government and deserved a stronger voice in national leadership.
"We are asking our people to register as voters and support President Ruto. At the same time, we believe the region has capable leaders who can occupy higher offices in the future," he said.
Khwisero MP Christopher Aseka urged residents to focus on development and economic empowerment, saying political stability was essential for progress.
"Our people need jobs, markets, roads and economic opportunities. That is why we are partnering with the national government through empowerment initiatives to improve livelihoods," Aseka said.
Bungoma Senator David Wakoli challenged opposition leaders to present alternative development plans instead of engaging in what he termed perpetual criticism of the government.
"Kenyans want solutions to their problems. They want development, better healthcare, quality education and economic empowerment. Politics of confrontation will not help the ordinary mwananchi," said Wakoli.
The Khwisero meeting underscored the growing political contest for Western Kenya's support ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Kenya Kwanza leaders intensifying efforts to consolidate the region behind President Ruto while simultaneously positioning themselves in the unfolding debate over the country's future leadership succession.
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