Ruto Allies Who Could Get Re-elected in 2027 in the Opposition Strongholds (Opinion)

Political realignments have begun as the upcoming general election draws closer. Both the broad-based government and the united opposition have their respective strongholds where they are expected to win the majority of seats.

However, some of President William Ruto's allies could retain their seats even in areas considered opposition strongholds. They include Sylvanus Osoro, Kwenya Thuku and Irene Njoki.

1. Sylvanus Osoro

The National Assembly Majority Whip is currently serving his second term as the MP for South Mugirango Constituency in Kisii County. He first won the seat in 2017 on a Kenya National Congress (KNC) ticket. At the time, the majority of Gusii voters supported Raila Odinga in the presidential election.

In 2022, Osoro successfully defended his seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, led by President Ruto. Again, the majority of South Mugirango voters supported Raila. This means Osoro survived Raila's wave and defeated ODM candidate Denis Makori.

Currently, the Gusii region appears to be rallying behind former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, who is in the presidential race. Osoro, on the other hand, is supporting President Ruto.

Because Osoro has demonstrated in previous elections that he can win even when facing a popular party or presidential candidate, he could retain the seat in 2027.

2. Kwenya Thuku

He is the MP for Kinangop Constituency in Nyandarua County. He won the seat in 2022 on a Jubilee Party ticket. At the time, UDA was very strong in Nyandarua, but he still managed to win the seat against UDA candidate Amos Chege Mugo.

Currently, the MP is allied with the government and supports President William Ruto's re-election bid, while the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) is becoming increasingly popular across the Mt Kenya region.

However, Kwenya could retain the seat against DCP, just as he defeated the UDA candidate in 2022.

3. Irene Njoki

She is the MP for Bahati Constituency in Nakuru County. She won the seat in the 2022 general election on a Jubilee Party ticket. At the time, UDA was more popular than the Azimio coalition, of which Jubilee was a member.

The majority of Bahati residents voted for Ruto over Raila, but Njoki still won the parliamentary race. This suggests that she had a loyal support base of her own and was not solely favoured by her party.

Currently, Njoki is aligned with the government, and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua had mentioned her among the Mt Kenya leaders who should be voted out in the upcoming polls. 

However, she could retain the seat if she manages to maintain the support base that backed her in 2022.