Wetang’ula: Western Kenya’s numbers could deliver deputy president slot in 2027
By Enock Amukhale, June 27, 2026National Assembly speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged residents of Western Kenya to unite behind President William Ruto, saying the region’s numerical strength could earn it the Deputy President position in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a fundraising event for Emuhaya boda boda groups at Emusire Boys Grounds in Emuhaya on Friday, June 27, 2026, Wetang’ula said Western Kenya has enough political influence to negotiate for the country’s second-highest office if voters register in large numbers and support President Ruto’s re-election bid.
He noted that the region already boasts senior leaders serving in government, including Musalia Mudavadi, Wycliffe Oparanya and himself, arguing that any of them would be capable of serving as deputy president.
“Western Kenya has Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, and me as Speaker of the National Assembly. President Ruto can pick any of us as deputy president and groom the person for the 2032 presidential race,” Wetang’ula said.
The Speaker described the presidency as being “just here at Turbo”, urging residents to rally behind President Ruto to improve the region’s bargaining position within the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“Our work is to roll it to Western Kenya. Our numbers must count. Let our people register in large numbers and support President Ruto so he can support us in turn. If you scratch your wife’s back, she will also scratch yours,” he told the cheering crowd.
Wetang’ulah’s remarks were echoed by President Ruto’s aide, Farouk Kibet, who called on the Luhya community to support the President’s bid for a second term.
“Support President Ruto now, and he will support you when your turn comes,” Kibet said.
Pledge for Ruto’s backing
He cautioned Western Kenya voters against backing the opposition, arguing that the Kenya Kwanza administration offered the region the best opportunity to secure greater representation in government.
“The opposition has no agenda for you. Your interests are safe with Kenya Kwanza under President William Ruto,” Kibet added.
Several leaders from the region pledged to mobilise support for the president ahead of the 2027 polls. They included Omboko Milemba, Dick Maungu, Beatrice Adagala, Clement Sloya, Charles Gimose and Ernest Kagesi.
Milemba urged the region to avoid the political divisions that have historically weakened its bargaining power.
“We have top government leaders already. Let us consolidate behind President Ruto and demand our rightful share,” he said.
The fundraising event attracted hundreds of boda boda operators, youth groups and residents, with leaders describing it as part of efforts to strengthen Kenya Kwanza’s grassroots support in Western Kenya ahead of the 2027 general election.