Speaking during a political engagement, Kuria dismissed fears that the fallout between the Kenya Kwanza administration and sections of Mt Kenya leaders could threaten Ruto’s second-term bid.
According to Kuria, the President has already built a national political network strong enough to withstand resistance from the vote rich region that overwhelmingly backed him in the 2022 General Election.
Kuria’s remarks come amid growing political tensions within the ruling coalition following the impeachment battle involving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The Mt Kenya region has lately shown signs of political division, with some leaders accusing the government of sidelining the community despite its strong support for Kenya Kwanza during the last election.
The outspoken politician argued that Kenya’s political landscape has shifted and that no single region can solely determine the outcome of a presidential election.
He insisted that Ruto’s development agenda, grassroots mobilization and alliances across other regions would guarantee victory regardless of whether Mt Kenya votes as a bloc against him.
Kuria further noted that the President continues to enjoy support in regions such as Rift Valley, Western Kenya, Coast, North Eastern, and parts of Nyanza.
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He maintained that focusing only on Mt Kenya numbers ignores the broader national support base that Ruto has cultivated since taking office.
His comments have, however, triggered mixed reactions among political leaders and Kenyans online. Critics accused Kuria of undermining the political importance of Mt Kenya, which has historically played a decisive role in presidential elections due to its huge voter turnout.
Others interpreted the remarks as a direct warning to leaders attempting to pressure the government using regional politics.
Supporters of the President defended Kuria’s statement, saying it reflects a changing political reality where national leadership must appeal to all communities equally rather than depend on regional kingpins.
Political analysts believe the statement could deepen political realignments ahead of the 2027 race, especially as cracks continue to emerge within the ruling alliance.
The remarks are also expected to intensify debate over the future political direction of the Mt Kenya region and whether it will remain firmly behind Ruto.
As succession politics continue to take shape years before the next election, Kuria’s declaration has once again thrust Mt Kenya’s political influence into the national spotlight.
