Mbadi: I am ready to take over the presidency in 2032
By Faith Lagat, May 31, 2026National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has signalled his readiness to contest the 2032 presidential election, positioning himself among emerging contenders to succeed President William Ruto after his final term.
Speaking during the ODM Wabiro Mega Rally at Kirembe Grounds in Kisumu on Sunday, May 31, 2026, Mbadi said he was prepared for future leadership responsibilities.
“I am very ready and prepared to take over the leadership as the 6th president of the Republic of Kenya, and I will come here to ask for your vote,” Mbadi told supporters.
He, however, clarified earlier remarks made on May 2, 2026, in Kayole, where he first indicated that he would be ready to enter the presidential race when the 2032 election arrives. “Tukishapatia Ruto tutam, mimi kama John Mbadi sitaogopa. 2032 ikifika nitakuja kwa uwanja na nitaomba kura; mkikubaliana na mimi, pia nitaongoza nchi,” he said.
Calls for Luo unity
Mbadi used the Kisumu gathering to emphasise unity within the Luo community, urging residents to rally behind key leaders, including National Assembly Speaker Oburu Oginga and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga.
“There is no way that our community Luo will ever be divided. We must be united behind Oburu and Wanga; we will support them to the end,” he said.
He further noted that attempts to organise community political direction are often misinterpreted in national discourse, despite similar mobilisation efforts by other communities across the country.
ODM unity and emerging succession dynamics
The Kisumu rally brought together senior Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders, including Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and Homabay Governor Ochilo Ayacko, who reiterated calls for unity within the party and continued collaboration under the broad-based government arrangement.
Governor Wanga highlighted ongoing development gains linked to the political partnership, including infrastructure commitments such as the proposed extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) to Kisumu. She said cohesion was key to sustaining regional progress.
Other leaders present stressed the importance of maintaining unity ahead of the 2027 general election while also positioning ODM within broader national succession politics.
Political figures including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, have also continued to emphasise national stability as succession debates gradually take shape.