Blow to KINDIKI as Western leaders, led by Speaker WETANGULA demand RUTO’s running mate slot in 2027 General Elections - “We are not asking for favours”

Monday, May 25, 2026 - Leaders from Kenya’s Western region have demanded the Deputy President position in President William Ruto’s 2027 re‑election bid, a move seen as a direct challenge to current Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki.

The demand was made on Sunday, May 25^th, during a high‑level meeting in Naivasha attended by more than 28 Members of Parliament alongside senior figures including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.

Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, and Vihiga Governor Wilberforce Otichillo also attended.

Lugari MP, Nabii Nabwera, speaking after the meeting, insisted that the region had the numbers and political weight to claim the running mate slot.

“We are demanding the running mate position to His Excellency President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election because we have the requisite numbers and capability.”

“We are not asking for favours but recognition based on our contribution to national development and political support,” Nabwera said.

The leaders emphasized unity as key to strengthening their bargaining power nationally.

They also reaffirmed support for Ruto’s re‑election, citing increased engagement and resource allocation to Western Kenya under his administration.

Additionally, they urged the Government to fast‑track completion of infrastructure, health, education, water and agriculture projects in the region.

This push comes months after ODM leader, Oburu Oginga, declared his party was eyeing the Deputy President seat in 2027 as part of the broad-based Government arrangement with Ruto’s UDA.

The Kenyan DAILY POST