Supporters of President William Samoei Ruto drawn from across Western Kenya
have launched an ambitious grassroots movement to drum up support for his 2027
re-election bid, unveiling an aggressive mobilisation drive targeting
communities, youth groups and village networks across the region's five
counties.
Operating under the banner of the Magharibi Lobby Group, the supporters have
declared their intention to reach villages, mobilise youth groups, recruit
political volunteers and consolidate support for the President across the
region.
Herman Malavi Kahi, who was appointed chairman of the group's Trans Nzoia
County branch, said the group was determined to make Western Kenya a key
battleground in the 2027 General Election by taking its campaign directly to
the people.
"We want to take this message to every village, every community and
every household. Our people must understand what is happening in government and
why development programmes need continuity," Kahi said.
He defended President Ruto's development record, citing investments in
infrastructure, healthcare, manufacturing, railway projects and stadium
construction as evidence that the administration was delivering on its
promises.
"The President has good intentions. For instance, the large-scale
industrial investments, including the Dangote oil refinery projects, are
game-changers that could create new opportunities for employment, business and
entrepreneurship," Kahi said.
He also urged political leaders to create a favourable investment
environment, arguing that attracting investors would be critical to addressing
unemployment and strengthening the country's economy.
Okumu Simiyu Chikombe, a member of the lobby group from Endebess Sub-County,
said the group's strategy was to build a formidable grassroots network capable
of reaching communities across Western Kenya.
"We are not here to sit back and watch. We are here to organise,
mobilise and bring people together. Development is a collective responsibility,
and we need people ready to work," he said.
Juliana Miheso argued that abandoning ongoing development programmes before
their completion would undermine the progress already made, insisting that
continuity in government was necessary.
"Two terms means we do not abandon development halfway. It means
finishing what we started. Western Kenya must not be left behind," Miheso
said.
Jackline Kavai described the mobilisation initiative as an opportunity for
residents of Western Kenya to unite behind a common development agenda and
secure a greater stake in the country's political and economic future.
Livingstone Mugaizi also called for unity among the President's supporters,
expressing confidence that the region would be better organised as the country
approaches the next General Election.
Beyond mobilising political support, the lobby group called on young people
to reject political violence, intimidation and divisive rhetoric.
"I urge residents to embrace peaceful campaigns, respect divergent
political opinions and avoid actions that could threaten national
cohesion," Mugaizi said.
Members insisted that political competition should be based on ideas,
development records and constructive engagement rather than hostility and
confrontation.
The group said its mobilisation programme would continue through community
engagements, volunteer recruitment and the expansion of grassroots structures
across Trans Nzoia, Bungoma, Kakamega, Vihiga and Busia counties.
