Western Kenya leaders have heightened calls for their region to be considered for the Deputy President position in President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.
The push for stronger representation emerged during a consultative meeting in Naivasha attended by Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, CS Wycliffe Oparanya, governors and a section of MPs drawn from the region.
The leaders contended that Western Kenya, backed by its significant voting power and growing allegiance to President William Ruto’s administration, deserves a more prominent stake in national leadership, including the Deputy President position.
While addressing the press following their deliberations, the leaders maintained that the region has consistently supported successive regimes but has been continually sidelined in top leadership roles.
“We are demanding the running mate position to His Excellency President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election because we have the requisite numbers, leadership capacity and political goodwill to occupy that office,” said Mr Nabwera.
“We are not begging for favours. Western Kenya has stood with successive administrations and contributed immensely to national development. The time has come for the region to be fully recognised at the highest levels of leadership,” he added.
According to Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, Western Kenya leaders have agreed to push collectively for increased influence in national politics, saying the region must not be sidelined.
“Western Kenya is one of the most populous regions in the country and its people deserve representation at the apex of government. We have qualified leaders, we have numbers and we have demonstrated political maturity,” said Mr Lusaka.
He added: “This is not about division or confrontation with other regions. It is about equity, inclusion and ensuring every part of Kenya feels represented in government.”
Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi called on leaders from the region to rise above political rivalry and focus on securing a stronger national position for future generations.
“This conversation is bigger than individual leaders or political parties. It is about ensuring the children and youth of Western Kenya see themselves reflected in national leadership,” said Ms Elachi.
She added that when communities feel included in government, it strengthens national unity and deepens confidence in democratic governance.
The caucus further urged leaders in the region to set aside political differences and work together to consolidate the region’s influence in national affairs.
