President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, is expected to headline a high-level political rally on Sunday May 25, 2025 in Vihiga County, marking a rare public appearance that analysts say signals a recalibrated strategy by State House to consolidate political ground in Western Kenya.
Kibet, often seen as one of the most influential figures behind the scenes in the current administration, will be flanked by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya, who are expected to deliver key messages on development, unity, and national cohesion.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the event, a senior official in the planning team, who requested anonymity, said the rally is meant to “reconnect the government with the grassroots in Western Kenya and neutralize misinformation being spread by opposition elements.”
“This is not just politics — it’s about restoring faith in the government’s promises. The region plays a central role in Kenya’s economy and deserves a direct line to State House,” the official said.
The meeting, set to take place at Mbale Grounds, comes at a time when political tension is simmering across the country. The so-called Gen Z movement has created a new, unpredictable political front — one that insiders say State operatives like Kibet have been tasked with observing closely.
Political commentator and Kisumu-based analyst Dr. Felix Obuya says that the appearance of Farouk Kibet in Vihiga is “more strategic than symbolic.”
“Farouk rarely comes out in public rallies. When he does, it usually signals a pivot. His presence, along with heavyweights like Mudavadi and Oparanya, shows the government is serious about defending this region politically,” said Dr. Obuya.
The rally is also expected to feature addresses focused on local development, including pending infrastructure projects, agribusiness financing, youth employment initiatives, and county-national government collaboration.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi described the meeting as “a dialogue with the people, not just a rally,” urging residents to attend and “engage constructively.”
Former Governor Oparanya, now playing an advisory role in national politics, hinted at a new alignment forming within Western Kenya leaders to push for greater inclusion in decision-making.
“We are coming together to strengthen our voice as a region. That includes working with the national government, but also holding it accountable on promises made to our people,” he told journalists during a media briefing in Kakamega.
Security has been beefed up ahead of the event, with officers from the Kenya Police Service and county administration deployed to ensure order amid concerns of counter-demonstrations or heckling by opposition sympathizers.
The political temperatures in Vihiga, long considered a swing region, are expected to rise further following today’s rally, with both government allies and opposition camps closely watching the turnout and tone of speeches.
Written by John Vincent
