President Ruto Embarks on Development Tour in Gusii Region

President William Ruto is set to visit the Gusii region, starting with Nyamira County on Sunday and Monday, followed by Kisii County. During his visit, he will inspect and launch various development projects, including the proposed Standard Gauge Railway passing through Magwagwa in Nyamira, the Kisii Regional Cancer Centre, and the upgrading of Kisii Airstrip. The President's tour is part of his strategy to rejuvenate grassroots support and win over the critical voting bloc in the region.

The President's proponents in Gusii, including National Assembly Majority Chief Whip Sylvanus Osoro and MPs Joash Nyamoko, Stephen Mogaka, and Jerusha Momanyi, have been actively laying the groundwork for his visit. They have been engaging in public meetings, distributing handouts, and persuading residents to support the President. The legislators, along with government appointees like Solicitor General Shadrack Mose, have been marketing government projects to residents as part of a strategy to pacify the region ahead of the visit.

Despite the presence of Jubilee Party Presidential aspirant Dr. Fred Matiang'i, who has significant influence in the region, President Ruto is making a major push to win over the region's votes. In the 2022 elections, Ruto scored around 35% of the total votes cast in Gusii, while his then-challenger, Raila Odinga, garnered around 65%. Analysts, however, note that the President's support in the region may be limited, with Beautah Omanga, a former Bogichora MCA, stating that the President's following is largely driven by personal convenience rather than genuine support.

North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko defended the decision to support the President, citing the importance of government resources for development projects. He pointed to the Nyamira University, which is 60% complete, as evidence of the government's commitment to the region. Nyamoko emphasized that elected leaders should not ignore the President, as he is the patron of development, and that supporting the government can benefit their respective electoral areas.

During his visit, President Ruto will attend a church service at Matongo ELCK Church, commission the Tombe – Isinta – Gitaru Road, and launch the upgrading of the Bondeni-Magombo Road and Machururiati-Esani Road. He will also inspect the ongoing works at Gusii Stadium, which he has vowed to complete by December this year. The President's tour is seen as a crucial step in his bid to win over the Gusii region, a key voting bloc in the 2027 elections.

The Gusii region has been a stronghold for Dr. Fred Matiang'i, who has significant influence in the area. However, President Ruto's team is optimistic about winning over the region's votes, citing the government's development projects and the President's commitment to the area. The President's visit is expected to be closely watched, as it may have significant implications for the 2027 elections.

As President Ruto concludes his tour, it remains to be seen how his message of development and progress will resonate with the people of Gusii. With the 2027 elections approaching, the President's ability to win over key regions like Gusii will be crucial in determining his chances of re-election. The Standard will continue to provide updates on the President's tour and its impact on the region.

Key points

• President Ruto aims to boost grassroots support and garner votes for the 2027 elections during his development tour in the Gusii region.