Remarks made during a church service in Gatundu North have reignited discussion about the Mt Kenya region’s role in the 2027 presidential contest, after Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai publicly projected a strong showing for President William Ruto.
The comments followed assurances by a senior AIPCA bishop that the region would back Ruto when he seeks re-election. The development has drawn attention to the growing intersection of religion and politics ahead of the next polls.
President Ruto attended the AIPCA service on Sunday in Gatundu North, Kiambu County, a region that has historically played a decisive role in Kenyan elections.
During the service, the presiding bishop told congregants that Mt Kenya would support the president in 2027. The statement quickly circulated online, prompting political reactions.
Responding on X, Alai said his prediction of Ruto securing at least 60 per cent of the Mt Kenya vote in 2027 dates back to October 2024.
In the same post, he criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, describing him as politically overstated and accusing him of advancing divisive messaging. Alai’s comments were attributed directly to his verified X account.
Mt Kenya has traditionally voted as a bloc, most notably backing former President Mwai Kibaki in 2002 and 2007, and later supporting Uhuru Kenyatta in 2013 and 2017.
In 2022, the region was central to Ruto’s victory after he ran on a platform that promised economic empowerment and inclusion. Since then, political realignments within the region have continued to shape national debate.
Gachagua, who served as Ruto’s deputy before their political fallout, has remained influential among sections of the Mt Kenya electorate.
His supporters argue he represents regional interests, while critics say his approach risks fragmenting support within the bloc. These divisions are expected to feature prominently as parties and leaders position themselves for 2027.
Religious institutions have increasingly become venues for political messaging, a trend that has sparked public debate.
While some leaders view churches as spaces for civic engagement, others warn that overt political declarations by clergy could compromise neutrality.