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Ruto to Gachagua, opposition: I will beat you hands down in 2027
President William Ruto addresses Kisumu residents on May 29, 2025, during the commissioning of the Makasembo LAPFUND Housing Project. The initiative aims to deliver affordable, modern housing under the government’s broader Affordable Housing Programme, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to equitable development and urban renewal across the country.
What you need to know:
- Among those eyeing the presidency are former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Action Party (DAP)-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
- Both Mr Gachagua and Dr Matiang’i have publicly announced their intentions to run, with Mr Gachagua even launching a new political outfit, Democracy for the Citizens Party, to back his presidential bid.
President William Ruto has exuded confidence in securing re-election in the 2027 polls, declaring that his performance in office places him well ahead of his rivals.
The Head of State affirmed he would triumph over his opponents early in the election cycle.
“They lack proper agenda and are not visionaries. Their mission is to sow discord, spread hatred, and call me names like Kasongo and so forth. But we will show them—let them try. I want to ask you: When you look at those tribalists, can they beat us? We’ll floor them very early in the morning,” President Ruto said.
Among those eyeing the presidency are former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Action Party (DAP)-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
Both Mr Gachagua and Dr Matiang’i have publicly announced their intentions to run, with Mr Gachagua even launching a new political outfit, Democracy for the Citizens Party, to back his presidential bid.
But Dr Ruto remains defiant.
Without naming names, he accused the group of fanning tribal divisions and engaging in political theatrics while his administration works to uplift the nation.
“They indulge in politics while we serve the people. “Their rhetoric is steeped in hate, but we remain focused on unity and progress,” he said.
The president made the remarks in Homa Bay, where he commissioned the construction of the Sh700 million Gor Mahia Ring Road in Ndhiwa.
His visit, part of a broader development tour of the region, was met with enthusiastic chants of “Kumi bila break!” (Ten years in office uninterrupted) as he rallied the crowd with his slogan “Kazi bila break!”—a call for relentless service.
President Ruto emphasised that his administration is committed to eradicating poverty and enhancing food security.
“Our mandate is to work tirelessly, without pause,” he said.
During a stop in Magina, the president outlined several projects earmarked for Homa Bay County, including the revival of long-stalled roadworks.
These include the Kanyadhiang–Pala–Kadel Ring Road in Rachuonyo North and the Mbita–Sindo–Magunga–Sori Road, which connects vital fishing communities along Lake Victoria in both Homa Bay and Migori counties.
“All infrastructure projects underway will be completed. No region will be left behind in our development agenda,” he pledged.
He was accompanied by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga lauded the president’s frequent visits, calling him a genuine ally of the region.
“You’ve visited Homa Bay eight times in two years, more than any of your predecessors,” she noted. “You’ve shown that you truly care.”
Governor Wanga, who also chairs the Orange Democratic Movement, reiterated her support for an inclusive government and expressed alignment with both President Ruto and Raila Odinga.
“We are with you. We are not deceivers. We speak with sincerity,” she said, using the occasion to request additional development projects, including the construction of the Marindi–Sikwadhi–Mirogi Road and new markets in Sikwadhi, Pala, and Ratanga.
CS Mbadi also urged residents to back President Ruto beyond 2027.
On Friday, the president is expected to commission a modern fish market and affordable housing project in Homa Bay Town and inspect the town’