A section of Western Kenya leaders under the “Tutam Brigade” on Sunday June 21, 2026 intensified campaigns for President William Ruto’s re-election, citing what they described as the administration’s impressive development record in the region while urging young people to shun planned street demonstrations.
The leaders spoke at Bethesda Church in Webuye Constituency before addressing hundreds of residents who had gathered outside the church after the service.
Leading the delegation, Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka said President William Ruto had delivered tangible development projects across Western Kenya and deserved another term in office.
Lusaka pointed to key government projects, including the upgrading of the Matisi Road and the settlement of dues owed to former workers of the defunct Pan Paper Mills, saying the initiatives had positively impacted the livelihoods of residents.
The governor accused opposition leaders who recently toured the region of engaging in what he termed “political tourism” without offering practical solutions to the challenges facing Kenyans.
“Western Kenya can clearly see the development record of President Ruto’s administration. Those coming here to campaign without an agenda should not mislead our people,” Lusaka said.
He further appealed to young people to maintain peace and avoid being drawn into confrontational politics.
Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula called on the Mulembe nation to support Ruto’s bid for a second and final term before charting its own political direction in 2032.
“We should give President Ruto his final term and begin preparing as the Mulembe nation for 2032,” Savula said.
He also urged the youth to keep away from planned demonstrations being organized to commemorate victims of last year’s anti-government protests.
“Instead of engaging in street protests, let us honour those who lost their lives peacefully and focus on building the nation,” he said.
Teso South MP Mary Emase echoed the call for restraint, urging young people not to allow themselves to be used by politicians.
“We have not forgotten those who died, but if there is a need to commemorate them, it should be done peacefully. Our youth should not be manipulated into violence,” she said.
Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana said the Western region stood to benefit more by working closely with the national government.
“We must remain in government and enjoy the benefits that come with development. President Ruto has delivered projects, including an airstrip in Bungoma and health infrastructure in areas such as Sichei,” Ikana said.
Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala said leaders from the region would continue speaking with one voice in support of the President’s re-election.
“As the Mulembe nation, we are united behind President Ruto because of the development agenda he has delivered to our people,” Adagala said.
The leaders collectively warned against violent demonstrations, saying the region’s focus should remain on peace, economic growth and development as the country prepares for the next General Election.
Also in attendance were area MP Dan Wanyama and Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau.
