Ruto Defends Engagement with Mt Kenya, Pledges Direct Connection with Residents

President William Ruto has emphatically stated that he does not require permission from any individual or political group to engage with the people of Mt Kenya. 

Speaking during the requiem mass of the late Ol Kalou MP David Njugua in Nyandarua County on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the President reiterated his commitment to visiting communities and addressing their concerns directly.

“I understand the support I received from the people of Mt Kenya. I am neither naive nor inexperienced; I know what I am doing. I have nurtured a long-standing relationship with the residents here, and no one should bring their conflicts to interfere with my connection to them,” President Ruto said during his address to mourners.

The President’s remarks come amid a tense political climate in the region, where alliances and loyalties are being tested ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

By stressing that he will engage with constituents independently, Ruto sought to assert both his authority as the nation’s leader and his personal rapport with Mt Kenya voters.

“Mimi siombewi ruhusa mahali popote Kenya. I am the President, and I will go everywhere, and I will do everything as the President of the Republic of Kenya. I am not going to ask permission from anybody, whoever you are,” he said.

Ruto also assured residents of Nyandarua County that his administration remains committed to protecting their interests and delivering development projects without interference. 

“Mimi nitahakikisha haki ya watu wa Nyandarua haitabebwa na mtu yeyote. Tutafanya maendeleo hapa ipasavyo,” he added, emphasizing that governance and service delivery would proceed regardless of political rivalries.

The event also brought President Ruto face-to-face with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Gachagua attended with his political team led by Nyandarua Senator John Methu, signaling his determination to maintain a strong presence in the region despite ongoing tensions with the current administration.

Political observers note that Gachagua has been consolidating his influence in Mt Kenya, combining strategic outreach with assertive rhetoric. 

In recent months, he has portrayed himself as the region’s primary voice, urging supporters to vote out those he considers disloyal or aligned with opposing political interests. 

At the same time, he has maintained a measured tone in engaging critics, adopting a “gather all, scatter none” approach to maintain broader unity.

During the same period, Gachagua emphasized the need for political accountability, saying, “All traitors of the Kenyan people and our community who are helping William Ruto persecute our people must be voted out without fear or favour.”