President Ruto Confident of Landslide Win in 2027 Against Opposition

President William Ruto has voiced confidence in his prospects for re-election in 2027, even as critical budgetary shortfalls threaten preparations for the upcoming general election. 

The National Treasury has revealed a Ksh9.2 billion deficit in funding required for the election, casting a shadow over the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission's (IEBC) ability to conduct essential preparations. Speaking to residents of Homa Bay County, Ruto dismissed potential rivals, questioning their vision and capabilities. 

"They indulge in politics while we serve the people," he said, affirming his administration's focus on development and service delivery.

His comments coincide with growing concerns over the country's financial readiness to support a free, fair, and credible election. The political arena is heating up with several figures emerging as potential contenders for the presidency in 2027. Among those speculated to run are former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Action Party-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i.

Gachagua has already launched the Democracy for the Citizens Party as a vehicle for his presidential ambitions. Matiang'i's entry into the race adds an intriguing dynamic, given his extensive experience in government. Despite the burgeoning field of candidates, President Ruto remains steadfast, asserting that his leadership and developmental agenda will resonate with Kenyan voters. During his visit to Homa Bay County, President Ruto highlighted several key infrastructure projects aimed at improving livelihoods, including the Kanyadhiang-Pala-Kadel Ring Road and the Mbita-Sindo-Magunga-Sori Road. 

These projects, he emphasised, demonstrate his administration's commitment to equitable development across all regions. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga praised the President's frequent visits to the county, acknowledging his focus on regional development. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi and Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi accompanied the President, reinforcing the government's commitment to addressing local needs.

The looming election faces significant challenges due to critical funding gaps. Treasury Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo informed the National Assembly's Budget and Appropriation Committee that the required Ksh9.2 billion for the 2027 General Election has not been allocated in the current budget estimates.

Kiptoo warned that this shortfall could disrupt essential election logistics, including voter registration and the procurement of necessary electoral equipment. He urged urgent legislative intervention to bridge the funding gap and ensure the IEBC can adequately prepare for the election.

The IEBC is already grappling with Ksh3.8 billion in pending bills, including Ksh2.65 billion in legal fees and Ksh298 million related to election logistics. Parliament has requested the commission to provide detailed documentation for these financial claims before approving any additional funds. The commission's plans for the 2027 elections include registering approximately 6.3 million new voters to supplement the existing 22.1 million voters. To facilitate the process, the IEBC requires 59,352 election kits, with 55,393 designated for polling stations and 3,959 for training.

Further compounding the financial strain, 45,352 election kits purchased in 2017 need to be replaced, while 14,000 kits acquired in 2022 will be reused. Persisting budgetary constraints could stall critical aspects of voter registration and technology deployment, raising concerns over electoral preparedness and potentially impacting voter confidence.

The Treasury's budgetary gaps extend beyond election logistics, impacting several essential government programs. Kiptoo noted that the current financial plan lacks provisions for police medical cover worth Ksh17.6 billion and police group life cover amounting to Ksh6 billion. Additionally, the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) requires Ksh34 billion to fund university scholarships, and Ksh11.3 billion is needed for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarships.

In his budget presentation, Kiptoo outlined key fiscal metrics, projecting revenue at Ksh3.3 trillion for FY 2025/26, representing 17.2 percent of GDP. The government anticipates total expenditure at Ksh4.2 trillion, equating to 22 percent of GDP, with the fiscal deficit expected to decline to 4.5 percent of GDP. He also highlighted improvements in economic indicators, noting that Kenya's inflation rate had fallen to 4.1 percent in April 2025, down from a peak of 9.6 percent in October 2022.