The political battle to win control of the Ukambani region is heating up a day after President William Ruto visited the area.

The battles highlight the rising significance of Ukambani as both forces step up their campaign to win over voters ahead of the 2027 general election.

Kalonzo has been leading the opposition brigade in visits to the Ukambani region in a bid to solidify his strong support in the territory and in a bid to secure the mantle to spearhead the opposition’s flag as the presidential candidate in the upcoming general elections in 2027.

The Head of State’s visit marks the onset of a political turf war in which both sides will attempt to gain political traction in the region and consolidate their political base.

Ruto’s development pitch

President Ruto, during his visit to Kitui on Sunday, July 12, 2026, outlined the government’s development agenda for the region, noting that there are various ongoing and planned infrastructure projects, water projects, road construction and other investments planned to benefit the region. The President has always said that his government is keen to provide development without political consideration and has encouraged Kenyans to back the Government of Kenya Kwanza.

The visit was part of the president’s efforts to build his political base in areas where he received strong support in the 2022 general election from the opposition.

Ukambani, which has traditionally been regarded as Kalonzo’s political heartland, is among the areas the president is hopeful of making a big impact before the next elections.

Kalonzo’s counter-mobilisation

The latest opposition’s mobilisation campaign in the Ukambani region has been seen as a way to re-establish Kalonzo’s grip in the region and to ensure any political gains from the ruling coalition are null and void.

Kalonzo’s journey has been projected to leverage the journey to mobilise his followers and strengthen the opposition’s agenda on governance, cost of living and accountability.

Kalonzo, one of the country’s top opposition leaders and a 2027 presidential contender, has maintained himself as the political voice of the region by collaborating with other opposition leaders to form a coalition against President Ruto.

Early race for 2027

President Ruto and Kalonzo seem to be hell-bent on capturing all votes in the politically tight Ukambani areas.

Rather, both leaders are working hard to plant seeds in the minds of voters ahead of the upcoming 2027 elections as they strive to shape the political narratives in what will be one of the most closely contested regional races in recent years.