Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero has expressed confidence that President William Ruto is well-positioned to secure re-election in the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, January 13, 2025, Kidero, who was the first elected governor of Nairobi City County, highlighted President Ruto’s impressive development record as a key factor that will ensure his second term in office.
Kidero praised President Ruto for steering Kenya’s economy from a challenging period to notable growth since he assumed power in 2022. He emphasized that the President’s focus on agriculture has been particularly crucial in the country’s economic recovery.
“The current administration has prioritized agriculture, which is the backbone of our economy,” Kidero said. “Through initiatives like the fertilizer subsidy program, Kenyan farmers have seen tangible benefits. For the first time, Kenya has not had to import maize or other key agricultural products because our farmers have been able to meet demand thanks to increased productivity.”
Kidero also commended the Kenya Kwanza government for its overall economic progress, suggesting that the trajectory of the country’s development would make it easy for President Ruto to secure a second term. He stressed that the positive impact of these initiatives would be felt by every Kenyan in the coming years. “In two more years, every Kenyan will begin to feel the fruits of the economic growth we’ve experienced under this administration,” he said.
On the issue of social media, Kidero urged young Kenyans to be more responsible in how they engage with the online space. While acknowledging Kenya’s vibrant democratic environment, he called for constructive and objective criticism, particularly when it comes to government policies and leadership.
“I urge our youth to use social media in a responsible way. This platform holds immense potential to create employment and generate income, so instead of using it to mock leaders or spread negativity, young people should focus on monetizing content creation and turning this tool into a commercial opportunity,” Kidero advised.
His comments come at a time when social media plays an increasingly prominent role in shaping public discourse in Kenya, with many young people using these platforms both to critique and engage with political figures. Kidero’s call for a more responsible and constructive use of social media seeks to promote a more positive and productive online culture in the country.