No Longer Facing Mt Kenya: President Ruto Finds Solace in Nyanza

President William Ruto’s rise to power was marked by the unwavering support of the Mt. Kenya region, where he was once hailed as a political hero. His journey began in 2013, when a political pact with former President Uhuru Kenyatta brought the two once-bitter rivals together under the shadow of the International Criminal Court (ICC) charges. Uhuru, with his eyes set on the presidency, positioned Ruto as his trusted deputy, endearing him to the Mt. Kenya electorate.

Ruto capitalized on this alliance, working tirelessly to win the hearts of the people in the region, not just as Uhuru’s deputy, but as a leader in his own right. His frequent greetings in the Kikuyu dialect and his active participation in local fundraising endeared him to the locals, culminating in his decisive victory in the 2022 elections. Ruto’s success extended beyond the presidency, as his allies secured key political positions across Mt. Kenya, solidifying his status as the region’s kingpin.

Despite this strong start, cracks in the relationship began to emerge following the 2018 handshake between Uhuru and opposition leader Raila Odinga. This unexpected alliance shifted the political dynamics, and Ruto swiftly moved to fill the vacuum left by Uhuru’s pivot. His charm offensive continued unabated, with thanksgiving ceremonies and prayer rallies reaffirming his commitment to the Mt. Kenya people.

However, the introduction of the unpopular Finance Bill of 2024 marked a turning point. The bill, which proposed contentious new taxes, sparked nationwide protests led by the youth, known as Gen-Z. Facing mounting public pressure and internal dissent, Ruto reshuffled his Cabinet, retaining only Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, while bringing in Raila’s allies in a bid to stabilize his government. This move, however, only deepened the rift with his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, leading to Gachagua’s impeachment in October 2024.

The once-solid support from Mt. Kenya began to erode, as evidenced by the hostile receptions Ruto received during subsequent visits to the region. In Embu, during a church installation ceremony, and in Murang’a at a funeral service, the previously welcoming crowds turned cold, signaling a significant shift in sentiment.

Amid this growing discontent, Ruto shifted his focus to Nyanza, a region that had largely opposed him in the 2022 elections. In a surprising twist, Ruto found a warm reception in Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, Migori, and Kisii. His visits to these areas were marked by enthusiasm, signaling a potential new alliance. The shift to Nyanza mirrors the political maneuvers of past presidents like Uhuru and Moi, who sought refuge in the region during times of political strife.

Ruto’s adoption of Nyanza as his new political base highlights the fluid nature of Kenyan politics. As he adjusts his approach, embracing new alliances and seeking fresh support, Ruto’s journey from Mt. Kenya to Nyanza represents a significant chapter in his presidency. Whether this new path will lead to sustained political stability remains uncertain, but for now, Nyanza offers President Ruto a chance to recalibrate and rebuild.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.