Western Kenya leaders reject deputy president debate, commit to Ruto's re-election

Dan Wanyama, Ayub Savula, Beatrice Adagala, Mary Emase, and Kenneth Lusaka during a Kenya Kwanza allies' fundraising drive in Webuye West. [Jackline Inyanji, Standard]

Western Kenya, including the Luhya, Teso, and Sabaot communities, has rejected discussions over who should be President William Ruto's running mate in the 2027 elections, saying the focus should remain on delivering votes for the President.

Ayub Savula, Deputy Regional Coordinator for Ruto's campaign and Deputy Governor of Kakamega County, said the region will prioritise mobilising over 2.6 million votes for Ruto.

"Our priority is to deliver votes from the region, which were previously going to Raila Odinga, to President Ruto," Savula said while addressing residents in Mautuma Ward, Lugari Constituency.