President William Ruto has concluded his four-day tour of the Gusii region by launching multiple development projects to strengthen support ahead of the 2027 elections. The initiatives aim to counter the influence of former Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i in the area. Ruto stated he would respond to opponents through development projects rather than insults.
President Ruto visited Kisii and Nyamira counties, launching projects including roads, markets, and student housing. In Kisii, he laid the foundation stone for student housing at Nyamache Medical Training College, the Mogonga modern market, and 22 other markets costing Sh2.5 billion. He also launched the Bobaracho-Tingá road leading to the Gianchore Sugar Factory.
In Nyamira, he inaugurated construction of the 61-kilometre Eronge-Kebuse-Omonyenya road, which is 58% complete, along with the Keumbu-Kiendeke and Chabera-Nyamusi-Nyamaiya roads. He laid the foundation for student housing at Nyamira University for Sh300 million, with the government allocating Sh500 million to build the university. Other projects include renovating Gusii Stadium for Sh1 billion and upgrading Nyamira County Hospital for Sh1 billion.
“I will not engage in mudslinging campaigns as elections approach, and if my opponents choose that path, I will respond through development projects,” President Ruto said, targeting Fred Matiang’i and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Political analyst Dismas Mokua stated that if these projects are implemented, it would be difficult to counter Ruto’s influence in the region. Local leaders remain divided between supporting Ruto and Matiang’i.