Aasai

Lang’ata Member of Parliament Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, has boldly declared that President William Ruto is on a clear path to winning a second term in office come the 2027 general elections. Speaking during a candid conversation with radio presenter Alex Mwakideu on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Jalang’o said Ruto’s political grip is growing stronger by the day, making it increasingly difficult for any potential opponent to dislodge him.

Jalang’o noted that Rutos ability to withstand political storms and maintain confidence in the face of criticism is a sign of his solidified support base across the country. “Ruto kurudi inaenda kuwa ngumu na kumtoa ndio inaenda kuwa ngumu zaidi,” he said, adding that the President appears more confident than ever as he plans for his political future. He stated that Ruto is not only likely to win but will do so by a large margin.

According to the first-time MP, the current political terrain lacks a formidable alternative leader capable of mounting a serious challenge to Ruto. He insisted that no one within the opposition or other emerging factions has demonstrated the political capital, strategy, or popularity needed to match Ruto’s growing dominance. “Sijaona mtu wakumtoa ama kumsumbua,” Jalang’o remarked, suggesting that the next election may turn out to be a one-horse race.

Jalang’o also addressed the growing pressure being placed on Ruto’s administration, noting that it is a mix of legitimate public expectations and political rhetoric. He acknowledged that not all citizens are fully satisfied with the president’s performance, but he attributed this to the fact that many of the promises made during the 2022 campaign are only now beginning to materialize. He said Ruto still has time to complete his pledges and prove critics wrong.

“Hiyo pressure kuna ya ukweli ya watu ambao hawajaridhika na utendakazi wake, na kuna pressure ya kisiasa,” he explained. “Lakini ukichunguza, miaka miwili na nusu si mingi. Yale mambo aliyosema wakati wa kampeni sasa ndio yanaanza kuonekana.” He added that Kenyans will soon begin to appreciate the developmental projects once they take full effect.

Jalang’o’s remarks follow a recent speech by President Ruto, who confidently announced that he would defeat the opposition in 2027 by a landslide. Speaking during a public function in Kisumu on May 29, Ruto dismissed his rivals as lacking any tangible plan for the country. “These are people who have no vision, no plan, and no agenda,” Ruto said. “All they know are slogans. We will show them dust.”

The opposition, now being organized under the leadership of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has indicated its intention to challenge Ruto’s presidency. However, Ruto’s allies remain unfazed. Jalang’o emphasized that unless the opposition changes strategy or produces a strong candidate, Ruto’s victory is all but assured.

Political analysts have noted that while Ruto faces growing discontent over the cost of living, high taxes, and unmet promises, he continues to control a large political base and has remained visible in development projects across various regions. Jalang’o believes this visibility, combined with his resilience, will be key to securing another term.

As the country heads into the second half of Ruto’s term, political alignments and voter sentiments are expected to shift. Still, if Jalang’o’s forecast is anything to go by, the road to State House in 2027 may be less turbulent for Ruto than anticipated — unless the opposition dramatically rebrands and reorganizes.