Coast leaders vow to deliver region to Ruto in 2027

Coastal political leaders are rallying behind President William Ruto, vowing that the region will back his re-election bid and reject opposition politics in the 2027 General Election. Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho, leading the effort, emphasized the government's development projects in the coastal counties and their commitment to addressing the long-standing issue of squatter settlements.

Speaking during a political gathering, Joho exhorted residents to rally behind Ruto, stating that the region should support the President and subsequently seek government support for its priorities. "Sasa Mwenyezi Mungu naye ametuletea Daktari William Ruto... Tumbebe, tumpigie kura kwa fujo akimaliza, na sisi twende kwa watu wake tumwambie," Joho declared, pledging support for the President.

Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Fikirini Jacobs echoed Joho's call for support, urging residents to capitalize on the President's willingness to collaborate with the region's people. Jacobs emphasized the importance of voter registration, stating that a larger voter base would bolster the region's bargaining power in political negotiations. "Sisi tutasimama sana! Na tutaikanyaga hii njia na miguu miwili kisha tukikiinua kwa manufaa ya jamii wetu," Jacobs urged.

Taita Taveta Senator Jones Mwaruma expressed that the government-backed leaders aim to enhance their representation at the ward and parliamentary levels, targeting 15 MCA seats out of 20 wards, up from the current five. Mwaruma noted that several county elected officials are affiliated with the ODM and challenged aspirants seeking government-backed positions to undergo the nomination process. The heightened mobilization is part of the Coast's strategy to secure a stronger negotiating position ahead of the 2027 elections.

With the estimated two million votes in the region, Coast leaders argue that increasing voter turnout is crucial for gaining a more influential position at the national level. Comparatively, the Mount Kenya region and Nyanza have roughly five million and three million votes, respectively. ODM Deputy Party Leader Abdulswamad Nassir and Jacobs reiterated the importance of voter registration as a vital tool for the region's political leverage.

The push for greater political influence has also sparked discussions on potential running mate positions ahead of the 2027 election. An Infotrak survey released in July indicated that Joho led with 60 percent support in the Coast, the highest regional figure in the poll. As political parties and leaders intensify preparations for the 2027 General Election, the Coast continues to emerge as a critical battleground for competing political factions.