Hassan Joho Endorses Ruto for 2027, Declares 2032 Presidential Run

Hassan Joho has finally cleared the air. After months of speculation, the flamboyant former Mombasa governor and current Mining Cabinet Secretary has made it official — he will run for president in 2032.

At a charged rally in Garsen, Tana River County, Joho not only declared his presidential ambitions but also publicly backed President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

The announcement marks a major political realignment and signals Joho’s strategic patience. By endorsing Ruto now and sitting out 2027, Joho is positioning himself as a future contender with national appeal and political maturity.

The Hassan Joho 2032 Presidential Run is no longer a rumor — it’s a well-calculated, public declaration of intent. By endorsing Ruto now, Joho gains valuable time, influence, and visibility. He separates himself from old opposition tactics and aligns himself with power while laying the groundwork for a serious presidential bid. [Photo: Courtesy]

Why Hassan Joho 2032 Presidential Run Begins with Ruto’s Endorsement

Speaking to a sea of supporters in Garsen, Joho declared his full support for Ruto’s presidency and stated that he would only seek the presidency after Ruto completes his second term in 2032.

“We will hold William Ruto’s hand and accompany him, whatever it takes. Once he clocks 2032, we will be waiting for that seat,” Joho proclaimed, triggering loud applause.

This move puts Joho on a long-term political path, signaling the start of his national campaign. While critics have questioned ODM’s decision to collaborate with the Kenya Kwanza administration, Joho defended the shift and warned against being dragged into unnecessary political feuds.

“We from the Coast can’t be taken to a fight that is not ours. We cannot be used as weapons to fight people who are not our enemies,” he said.

By refusing to fight “other people’s battles,” Joho distanced himself from opposition hardliners still pushing confrontational politics. He also reassured President Ruto of full backing from the coastal voting bloc, saying the Head of State had already made major inroads in the region.

Joho’s Shift from Coastal Kingpin to National Contender

Joho’s rise from a Mombasa strongman to a national figure has not been accidental. In 2024, he made it clear that he had outgrown county politics and was now aiming for the top seat. He openly rejected suggestions to return to local office.

“I want to tell them I am done with Mombasa politics; I am now focusing on national politics,” Joho declared months before his appointment to the Cabinet.

His transition to the Mining docket gave him a new platform to interact with diverse communities, gain national exposure, and build alliances across party lines. His recent moves show he’s not just waiting for 2032 — he’s laying a strong foundation now.

Interestingly, ODM party leader Raila Odinga has in the past hinted that Joho would eventually be the party’s flagbearer. Raila has repeatedly said that no political seat in ODM is reserved for anyone, possibly setting the stage for an internal contest.

With Raila now warming up to a working relationship with Ruto’s government and even taking on AU roles, the ODM power vacuum could open doors for Joho to rise.

Joho, Babu Owino, and the Battle for ODM’s Future

As Raila gradually exits active politics, the race to fill his shoes is intensifying. Joho’s strategic move could place him at the front of the queue. However, he is not alone.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, a fellow ODM member, has also thrown his hat in the presidential ring. In April, Owino claimed that he is the only Kenyan capable of defeating Ruto in a presidential contest.

“I am overqualified for the position. I relate with the suffering of ordinary Kenyans because I have lived through their struggles,” he said.

While Owino brings youth, energy, and grassroots appeal, Joho carries experience, national connections, and a Cabinet post that could expand his reach further. The coming years may see a fierce rivalry between these two within ODM — or a surprising alliance.

But unlike Babu, Joho is not rushing. By backing Ruto in 2027, he avoids a direct fight now, builds goodwill with the current administration, and keeps ODM’s house from falling apart.

Conclusion

As the political climate shifts, the country will watch closely. Will Joho emerge as Raila Odinga’s true political heir? Will he hold the coastal bloc together while expanding nationally? One thing is clear — the 2027 election may belong to Ruto, but 2032 has a new contender, and his name is Hassan Joho.