Kathiani MP Robert Mbui has publicly faulted President William Ruto for allegedly disparaging Ukambani leaders during his recent regional tour.
Speaking in an interview with Citizen TV on Tuesday, Mbui said the president’s comments could strain relations between national leadership and the community’s elected officials.
Mbui claimed that Ruto suggested Ukambani leaders “have no brains,” a statement he described as dismissive of both the leaders and the residents they represent.
“When you insult elected leaders from the community, you are essentially insulting the people who vote for them. This affects the entire region,” Mbui said, warning of potential consequences in the 2027 general elections.
The MP questioned the counsel provided to the president during his tour, arguing that better guidance could have prevented politically damaging remarks.
He also suggested that excessive promises and a politically charged approach may undermine the president’s outreach in key regions.
Ukambani, which spans counties including Machakos, Kitui, and Makueni, has historically been a significant political base in national elections.
Mbui’s warning highlights concerns that missteps during outreach tours could affect loyalty and voter behaviour.
This is not the first instance where regional leaders have criticized national politicians for comments perceived as disrespectful.
Past elections have shown that communities in Eastern Kenya are vocal in defending their elected representatives, a dynamic that can influence campaign strategies and candidate support.
Mbui emphasized that remarks targeting local leadership risk alienating not just politicians but entire electorates, suggesting that the president could face backlash if perceived as undermining regional leaders.
“I think he’s insulted the whole community, and 2027 is around the corner. He’s going to get payback,” he stated.
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