Aasai

A section of political leaders from Kenya’s Coast region have expressed their firm support for President William Ruto, praising his development record and urging unity in backing his administration ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The show of solidarity came during the funeral service of Mzee Gideon Baya Mung’aro, father of Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro. The event, which drew several high-ranking government officials and local leaders, served as a platform for reaffirming the region’s alignment with the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi led the declarations, hailing President Rutos leadership and development agenda as impactful and people-centered. Kingi lauded the President for launching programmes that directly benefit ordinary Kenyans, saying the transformative nature of these initiatives has touched countless lives across the country.

“The kind of programmes President Ruto has introduced are those that speak to the heart of mwananchi. These are not abstract policies, but tangible actions. That’s why those fighting him are unsettled,” Kingi remarked. “Mr. President, remain steadfast. Do not be swayed.”

Kingi also took a swipe at leaders who may be tempted to shift allegiance for short-term political gain, warning against disloyalty. Using metaphorical language, he cautioned his colleagues: “Let’s not spit out the chewing gum weve already enjoyed just because we are being offered peanuts. We know what we have in President Ruto.”

He urged the Coast region to maintain political consistency, emphasizing that unity was vital for long-term development and representation. “We are firmly behind President Ruto because he has delivered and continues to deliver for our people,” he asserted.

Also speaking at the event, Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Joho, echoed Kingi’s sentiments. Joho, a former Mombasa governor, reaffirmed the region’s commitment to peaceful politics and economic advancement under Ruto’s leadership.

“We are not engaging in unnecessary political fights. We are preparing the Coast for a future of leadership and prosperity,” Joho said. “President Ruto, you have our full support, and we are ready to walk with you all the way.”

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya used the opportunity to condemn the use of youth in recent protests, particularly the nationwide demonstrations that have rocked the country. He accused some politicians of manipulating young people for personal gain.

“There are individuals using our youth to fuel chaos while they sit comfortably after achieving their political goals,” Mvurya said. “This must stop. We must protect the future of our young generation.”

Kilifi North MP Owen Baya and Kilifi South MP Kenneth Chonga also pledged their allegiance to President Ruto, urging their constituents to ignore political noise and stay focused on development.

“If there is one president who has walked with the people of Kilifi, it is William Ruto,” Baya stated. “We will not turn our backs on him now.”

Chonga, on his part, emphasized the need for political loyalty, quoting a Swahili saying: “Afadhali shetani unayemjua kuliko malaika usiyemjua” (Better the devil you know than the angel you don’t). He assured the President that the Coast region remains politically aligned with him.

In his address, President Ruto thanked the leaders and residents for their continued support. He reassured the community of his commitment to implementing critical development projects in the region, especially land reforms and rural electrification, which he said are central to uplifting historically marginalised areas.

This strong show of support comes amid growing political tension across the country, driven by youth-led protests demanding government accountability and better economic opportunities. As Ruto’s administration continues to push its development agenda, including affordable housing, land redistribution, and infrastructure projects, the Coast region’s backing could be key to shaping the 2027 political landscape.