Ruto endorses Meru governor for his second term
By Mabonga Makhanu, July 11, 2026President William Ruto has endorsed Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma for a second term in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a funeral service in Igembe North, Meru County, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, the president lauded Mutuma for what he described as an impressive performance despite having served as governor for only two years.
Ruto also praised Meru Senator Kathuri Murungi for agreeing to shelve his gubernatorial ambitions and remain in the Senate until 2032, when Mutuma will have completed his second term, should he be re-elected.
The president described Murungi as a selfless leader, saying he could have declared his interest in challenging Mutuma in the 2027 gubernatorial race but instead chose to support the governor and allow him to complete his tenure.
“Huyu kijana ambaye mmemchagua kama governor mumuongezee nafasi aendelee kuwatumikia kama governor, na tuko na huyu senator hapa, Kathuri Murungi. Kama angekuwa ni mtu wa tamaa, angesema, ‘Wacha nisimame governor,’ lakini amesimama kando ili Mutuma amalizie term yake. Thank you for being a selfless leader.”
Ruto urged Meru leaders to remain united and avoid political divisions that could derail development in the county.
Meru 2027 gubernatorial race
The endorsement comes amid heightened political activity ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial race in Meru. Former Meru Senator Mithika Linturi has already declared his interest in the seat and is expected to face off with the incumbent.
PNU party leader Peter Munya has also expressed interest in reclaiming the seat after losing in 2017 to Kiraitu Murungi. Although both leaders are in the opposition camp, they have not been reading from the same script and have repeatedly exchanged sharp political attacks in recent months.
Kindiki endorses Muragara
While holding a meeting with grassroots leaders from Tharaka Nithi, on Monday, May 18, 2026, the former senator wished Murugara success and good luck in his quest for the county’s top seat. Kindiki also extended his support to other aspirants, saying he wished them well in the race.
The Deputy President further signalled possible government appointments for those who may not succeed in the gubernatorial contest, stating that any candidate who fails should be brought to him.
“Didn’t I tell you that my help is small? Sina uwezo kabisa. Lakini, I wish you all the best. Na wale wote wanataka, nawatakia mema. Mwenye atapita, akue governor wenu; mwenye hatapita mniletee.”
Kindiki also urged residents of Tharaka Nithi to elect their next governor wisely and ensure they choose the best candidate for the county.
“Mimi sasa, nataka nikuhakikishie, you have the support of the government. In the next year, because you are not defending the constituency seat, ama umebadilika tena? You know, there is something I want to tell you all.”