President William Ruto’s anticipated visit to the Mt Kenya region remains uncertain due to differing opinions within his inner circle. Some advisors believe the timing is problematic, coinciding with recent political developments, including the reshuffling of powerful committees in the National Assembly and Senate, which saw allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua removed from key positions.
Concerns have also been raised about the timing of Ruto’s political alliance with a former opposition leader, whom he had previously criticized. Some allies worry that visiting the region now might escalate tensions rather than ease them. An MP close to the President suggested that waiting for the political climate to stabilize would be a more strategic move.
Further complicating matters, government officials recently failed to attend a local MP’s event, fueling speculation of a rift within the leadership. The MP, once a staunch supporter of the President, acknowledged in an interview that they had not spoken in months. This period coincided with a significant political event in which the MP notably abstained from voting, adding to speculation about shifting alliances.
Additionally, there are concerns about the optics of the President launching projects that had already been introduced under the previous administration. A legislator supporting a postponement of the visit argued that rather than reintroducing previously launched projects, the government should focus on initiating new ones to demonstrate credibility.
During a previous tour of the region, several infrastructure projects were relaunched with new plaques, despite having been initiated by the previous government. This included an irrigation project and a major road construction, both of which had already been unveiled years earlier. Critics argue that repeating these launches could undermine the administration’s promise of fresh development.
Despite the reservations, some leaders firmly believe that Ruto should proceed with the visit as planned. They argue that postponing it would lend credibility to the narrative that the region is being sidelined. Supporters of the visit have already begun mobilizing residents, ensuring a strong turnout to demonstrate continued regional backing for the President.
Among those advocating for the visit are elected officials who highlight upcoming engagements, including inspecting an ongoing market construction project, issuing title deeds to long-time squatters, and inaugurating a new school. These leaders insist that the President should not be deterred by political divisions and should continue engaging with the region as he has with others across the country.
Preparations for the visit are already underway, with some leaders hosting local events to rally support. Additionally, billboards have been erected in key towns, welcoming the President and signaling strong local backing. In recent meetings with regional leaders, plans were discussed to ensure the visit goes smoothly, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to the region.
Some MPs have defended the President’s absence from a recent church event in the area, stating that last-minute schedule changes are common. They emphasized that claims of estrangement from the region are unfounded and that the visit will proceed with substantial support despite anticipated opposition. Acknowledging that political differences exist, these leaders maintain that the President remains committed to fulfilling his promises to the region.
The debate surrounding Ruto’s visit highlights the broader political dynamics at play, including ongoing realignments and the delicate balancing act of maintaining support while navigating internal tensions. Whether or not the tour proceeds as planned, the political landscape in the region continues to evolve, shaping the administration’s engagement strategy moving forward.
