Former President Uhuru Kenyatta endorsed former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i for his leadership, not his tribal ties. Speaking at a Jubilee delegates meeting in Murang’a, Uhuru praised Matiang’i’s record in education and security reforms, calling him a hardworking, results-driven leader. He urged Mount Kenya leaders to embrace unity and avoid divisive politics. Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni confirmed the party’s full support for Matiang’i ahead of the 2027 elections.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua criticized President William Ruto’s pledge to make Kenya a First World nation, saying the country lacks the capacity to achieve such a transformation. Speaking in Nairobi’s Embakasi Central, he cited challenges in education, healthcare, and business. Gachagua said his criticism stems from duty, not malice, and vowed to push for change. Ruto defended his plan, citing upcoming reforms and a multi-trillion-shilling investment strategy to achieve long-term growth.

President William Ruto said he has no regrets over his “shoot in the leg” remarks during July’s anti-government protests, emphasizing that the law allows police to use force against violent demonstrators. He clarified the directive targeted looters, not peaceful protesters, denied giving police direct orders, dismissed claims of media interference, and said rogue officers face prosecution. He added that extrajudicial killings have ended under his administration.

Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi urged ODM members to back President William Ruto in the 2027 polls, citing the late Raila Odinga’s legacy of national unity. Speaking in Kisumu County, Wandayi said ODM should cooperate with Ruto’s administration to continue Odinga’s mission. He emphasized that only unity would strengthen their political influence. ODM Deputy Party Leader Simba Arati affirmed that the party remains part of the broad-based government until 2027 but is independent of Kenya Kwanza.

MPs from Meru County cautioned President William Ruto against replacing Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with an ODM leader in 2027. During a grassroots meeting, the lawmakers, including Mugambi Rindikiri and Dorothy Muthoni, said Mt. Kenya East’s support depends on Kindiki’s retention. They argued that removing him would erode Ruto’s backing in the region. The MPs vowed to defend their political stake and endorsed Kindiki for the presidency in 2032.

Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula defied his DAP-K party leadership to back UDA candidate David Ndakwa in the Malava by-election. Savula said his decision reflects the spirit of the broad-based government and distances him from DAP-K’s Seth Panyako. Analysts say his support boosts Ndakwa’s campaign ahead of the November 27 poll, which will test political influence in Western Kenya before the 2027 general election.