President William Ruto used his mother tongue during a recent address in Bomet, where he expressed concern over low voter registration in parts of the Rift Valley, a region long considered his political stronghold.
In the emotionally charged remarks, Ruto urged residents to take voter registration seriously, warning that political influence is determined not only by loyalty but by the number of people who are officially registered and turn out on election day.
He questioned why registration numbers appeared low despite what he described as strong support in the region, calling on leaders at the grassroots level to intensify mobilisation efforts.
His decision to switch to Kalenjin was seen as an attempt to directly appeal to local voters and reinforce the message.
The remarks have sparked political discussion, with some analysts interpreting them as a sign of concern within the President’s camp over voter turnout patterns.
Political analyst Martin Oloo said the comments reflect unease about shifting political dynamics in key regions.
“The President has every reason to panic. There are bases that he had, and they are now shaky. Two of them are Rift Valley and Central Kenya,” Oloo said.
He added that while Ruto continues efforts to strengthen his support in Mt Kenya, there are indications that enthusiasm in both regions may not be as strong as before.
Oloo further noted that the main concern is not necessarily political opposition, but voter apathy, which could affect turnout on election day.
“They might not oppose him, but if they do not turn up to vote on the material day to vote, he is doomed,” he said.