Ruto's Allies Launch Strategy to Win Back Mt Kenya Votes

Supporters of Kenyan President William Ruto in the Mt Kenya region have initiated a new strategy, dubbed the 'Diehard Movement', aimed at securing at least 40% of the votes in the region during the 2027 general elections. The movement, led by Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri and Ndia MP George Kariuki, seeks to build a grassroots network of Ruto supporters rather than relying on large political rallies. The duo has outlined plans to engage with residents in counties including Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Nyeri, Murang'a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nakuru, Nairobi, Kiambu, and Lamu.

The 'Diehard Movement' strategy involves organizing community meetings, youth football tournaments, and establishing a network of grassroots leaders who will mobilize voters. According to Kiunjuri, the goal is to demonstrate that there are still Mt Kenya residents who support Ruto and are willing to campaign for him to secure 40% of the region's votes. Kariuki noted that the movement's approach differs from traditional methods, as they intend to engage directly with citizens and inform them about government development projects, particularly those related to infrastructure such as roads.

However, Kariuki acknowledged that the movement has yet to achieve its desired level of success, citing the absence of a influential leader to unite the region's politicians since Rigathi Gachagua's removal from office. Gachagua, who was Ruto's former Deputy President, and former President Uhuru Kenyatta have been seen to have significant influence among some Mt Kenya residents. Gachagua has publicly stated that the region was betrayed by Ruto and should punish him in the upcoming elections.

In response, Kiunjuri emphasized that the 'Diehard Movement' will focus on building a network of people who can influence voters in each area, rather than relying solely on large gatherings. He stated that every county will have at least 20 coordinators responsible for organizing political activities, and those who fail to meet targets will be replaced. Political analyst John Okumu observed that Ruto cannot afford to lose the Mt Kenya region, as securing 40% of the votes there could be crucial for his national victory.

Okumu noted that Ruto's 2022 election win was largely driven by the Mt Kenya region, and while he may not need to replicate that level of success in 2027, he still requires a significant show of support. Meanwhile, Kiama Kia Ma elder Kung'u Muigai cautioned that political animosity should not dictate the region's decisions, warning that removing Ruto without a suitable alternative could be detrimental to Mt Kenya's future.

Senate Deputy Speaker Kathuri Murungi stated that Ruto's allies are not aiming to regain the support of every Mt Kenya resident, but rather to secure enough votes to ensure his competitiveness. Maragua MP Mary Wamaua noted that the strategy seeks to unite Ruto's supporters within the region's political families. Kiunjuri emphasized that Mt Kenya should not enter the 2027 elections with a focus on revenge, but rather through dialogue and a plan that ensures the region continues to participate in national leadership.

The success of the 'Diehard Movement' remains to be seen, as it depends on whether Ruto's allies can translate their strategy into actual votes in a region where opposition influence is growing. The movement's impact will likely be closely watched, given the significance of the Mt Kenya region in Kenyan politics.

Key points

• Ruto's allies aim to secure 40% of Mt Kenya votes in 2027 elections through grassroots mobilization.