Those who understand President William Ruto’s brand of politics know one thing, he doesn’t entertain blackmail. He’s a go-getter who thrives on results, not flattery. Ruto doesn’t rely on sycophants or brokers; he hunts for support himself.
Like the biblical shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep to find the lost one, Ruto goes after every vote, every region, and every person he believes can strengthen his political base. He did it in the Rift Valley, repeated it in Central Kenya, made inroads in Luo Nyanza, and now, his focus is squarely on Western Kenya.
The much-talked-about 30 percent deal he signed with Musalia Mudavadi and Moses Wetang’ula in 2022 was, in his eyes, political blackmail, something he’s unlikely to repeat. This time, he’s keen to avoid Luhya “kingpins” who emerge after elections demanding slices of government.
His recent Western tour speaks volumes. The message is clear: Ruto is now working directly with the grassroots, bypassing traditional power brokers.
Take Malava, for instance. The President is establishing a new political structure through trusted allies like Farouk Kibet, avoiding the usual channels and intermediaries. Funds and political coordination are no longer flowing through the local “fixers” of Western politics, Ruto is building a team that answers directly to him.
Ruto’s Strategy
No Competition
When Ruto said his only political rival was Raila Odinga, it wasn’t a casual remark. It signaled that figures like Mudavadi and Wetang’ula no longer pose a threat or hold real leverage. Their presence around him is more about optics than influence.
Direct Engagement
The Malava campaign and the Kakamega State Lodge meeting showcased Ruto’s new approach: direct contact with the people. Reports indicate he personally collected phone numbers of grassroots leaders and even sent them tokens directly, signaling a shift away from the “kingpin” model.
Ruto’s intentions are unmistakable: he is building a new political machine in Western Kenya, one that answers to him and him alone. As he positions himself for 2027, the message to the old guard is simple. step aside or be swept aside.
Just as he restructured power in Mt. Kenya and the Rift Valley, Ruto is quietly doing the same in the Mulembe Nation right under the noses of Mudavadi and Wetang’ula.
