‘We Will Support You Until 2032,’ Joho Assures Ruto

Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has publicly committed Coast region leaders to supporting President William Ruto’s administration until 2032, marking what he describes as an unprecedented level of unity among coastal political figures.

Speaking during a Tuesday meeting at State House Nairobi, where Ruto hosted leaders from six coastal counties, Joho emphasized that regional representatives would execute their assigned duties with “integrity and honesty” while working to improve constituents’ lives.

“We will do the work you have given us to better the lives and unite the people so that we all can prosper,” Joho declared. “We will continue to unite our leaders so that we can move forward from now until 2027 and 2032 going forward. That is the commitment we have made.”

The Cabinet Secretary characterized the current political alignment as historic, noting that Coast leaders have traditionally been divided but are now “solidly united” under Ruto’s leadership. According to Joho, previous administrations saw coastal politicians split into conflicting factions, but the current crop of leaders focuses solely on issues affecting their constituents.

“Your Excellency, the leaders you see here, it is the first time they have united solidly, it has never been like this,” Joho told the President. “There have always been two conflicting sides, and I feel very encouraged because they are issue-driven. When they sit, they discuss issues that affect the people they lead.”

The State House meeting brought together Cabinet Secretaries and elected officials from across the coastal counties of Mombasa, Tana River, Kilifi, Lamu, Kwale, and Taita Taveta.

President Ruto addressing the coastal region at State House Nairobi.

Joho’s declaration extends support beyond Ruto’s current term, which runs through 2027, suggesting backing for a potential second term that would conclude in 2032. The statement comes as political realignments continue to reshape Kenya’s political landscape, with traditional opposition strongholds like the Coast showing increased cooperation with the current administration.

The Mining CS dismissed critics of the regional unity, stating bluntly: “Those who do not want it, it’s up to them, for us we want development.”

This public pledge of extended loyalty represents a significant political development for the Coast region, historically considered an opposition stronghold, and could influence electoral dynamics in upcoming political cycles.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​