University students urge Ruto to groom Mbadi for presidency

Student leaders from the Luo Nyanza region have called upon President William Ruto to consider appointing John Mbadi, the Treasury Cabinet Secretary, as a potential candidate for the presidency in 2032. During a media interview on Saturday, October 24, 2026, these students highlighted Mbadi's significant contributions to economic reforms and regional development. They urged Mbadi to continue his commitment to the Kenya Kwanza administration as he prepares for higher leadership responsibilities.

Addressing the media on behalf of the student leaders, Ochola Joseph emphasized that residents of the region had witnessed development initiatives they attributed to Mbadi's leadership. The students praised his work in community fundraising efforts, known as harambees, and infrastructure projects, including the recent construction of a tarmac road in Suba. They compared Mbadi to Joshua, a biblical figure synonymous with leadership and guidance.

The student leaders emphasized the need for support from various segments of society to advance Mbadi's political ambitions. They urged young people and older generations to rally behind him, asserting that his leadership should be evaluated based on development impact and the lives of ordinary Kenyans. Johnstone Ocheing, a student leader, acknowledged the scrutiny public officials face but stressed that their performance should be judged objectively based on policy decisions, accountability, and development initiatives.

While signaling an early push to position Mbadi in succession discussions ahead of the 2032 General Election, the student leaders did not disclose the Treasury CS's stance on a possible presidential bid.