Nairobi: Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has rallied residents of Siaya to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, while urging increased voter registration and political unity to strengthen the region’s influence at the national level. Wandayi emphasized the importance of increasing voter numbers in Siaya to enhance its bargaining power and ensure a stronger voice in national decision-making. He spoke during a thanksgiving service for the AIC Tieng’o Church Sanctuary held at Ruma Secondary School grounds in Rarieda, Siaya County.
According to Kenya News Agency, Wandayi challenged politicians seeking elective positions in the county to actively support voter registration. He stated that political aspirants should demonstrate their contribution to expanding the electorate before seeking residents’ support. “There will be no free lunch. If you want us to support you for an elective position in this county, first and foremost, you must demonstrate that you are contributing actively towards voter registration,” Wandayi said.
Wandayi expressed confidence in the development projects being implemented in the county by the Kenya Kwanza administration, saying they demonstrated the government’s commitment to the region. He urged residents to rally behind Ruto for a second term, arguing that continued political support would help sustain development projects in the region. Wandayi also called for peace and political stability, emphasizing that a peaceful environment was essential for attracting investment and sustaining development.
Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke highlighted the government’s digital transformation agenda as a creator of opportunities for young people in Siaya and across the country. Isaboke cited digital hubs in Rarieda and Bondo as initiatives aimed at equipping young people with digital skills and connecting them to opportunities in the digital economy. He noted that the digital hubs were serving hundreds of young people from the area and beyond.
Several principal secretaries attending the event joined the call for support for Ruto’s second-term bid. Siaya Deputy Governor William Oduol supported the call for increased voter registration, urging politicians seeking elective positions to contribute towards expanding the electorate. Oduol also defended the Ruto administration’s development record in Siaya, while criticizing Siaya Governor James Orengo over alleged presidential ambitions.
Nyando MP Jared Okello called on the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to remain focused on preparations for the 2027 General Election and ensure credible polls. He declared his support for Ruto’s re-election, saying the administration had performed better than previous governments. The event was also addressed by Bondo MP Gedion Ochanda and Migori Senator Eddy Oketch, highlighting an increasingly coordinated campaign by Ruto allies in the region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Voter registration, development projects, and political unity emerged as the key messages as leaders sought to consolidate support for the President in Siaya.
