City lawyer Wahome Thuku has called on all presidential hopefuls planning to campaign in the Mt Kenya region to personally seek votes from residents, dismissing the use of political proxies or regional power brokers.
In a statement shared on X on Tuesday, Thuku said anyone seeking the presidency must appear in person and directly ask Mt Kenya voters to support their bid, rather than asking the region to vote for another candidate.
Thuku specifically mentioned former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, stating that if Matiang’i intends to run for president, he should personally ask Mt Kenya voters to support him.
He added that even former President Uhuru Kenyatta should not campaign on Matiang’i’s behalf.
According to Thuku, any candidate not appearing on the ballot should stay away from asking voters to back someone else.
He also referenced President William Ruto, saying the Head of State would campaign for himself in the region without relying on allies or intermediaries.
Thuku named Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, popularly known as Ruku, noting that Ruto would not need them to seek votes on his behalf in Mt Kenya.
The lawyer further mentioned other potential contenders, including former Chief Justice David Maraga and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
He said Kalonzo should personally address voters, even if accompanied only by minimal security, rather than relying on political brokers to negotiate support.
Thuku’s remarks come amid early political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Mt Kenya widely viewed as a critical voting bloc.
The region played a decisive role in the 2022 presidential contest and remains a focal point for both incumbents and opposition figures.
He concluded by criticising politicians who claim ownership of past electoral victories in the region, saying voters are tired of narratives suggesting individuals “delivered” Mt Kenya votes to certain leaders.
Thuku maintained that voters make independent choices and expect candidates to respect them by engaging directly and openly.