Joho Declares 2032 Presidential Ambition, Backs Ruto for Re-election in 2027

 

By Maxwell Maungu

 Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho has officially declared his intention to run for Kenya’s presidency in 2032, while voicing strong support for President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

Speaking on Saturday at the Likoni Constituency Economic Empowerment Forum, Joho struck a balance between future ambition and present loyalty, urging Kenyans to unite behind Ruto to ensure political stability and inclusive development.

“When I look ahead, I see myself one day becoming the President of Kenya,” Joho said. “There is a time meant for me to lead. But for now, I ask that we support Ruto in 2027 so we can unite Kenyans and achieve equality.”

Joho, a former Mombasa governor and prominent figure in the ODM party, stunned political observers by endorsing a future alliance between President Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga—two leaders often seen as political rivals. He argued that such a partnership could foster fairness and national cohesion.

“Let Ruto complete his second term and work together with Raila. When 2032 comes, Hassan Ali Joho will be ready to lead this country,” he said confidently, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Joho used the platform to defend his record in government, highlighting recent efforts to resolve land disputes in Mtongwe as a sign of his effectiveness in public service.

“As CS, I personally engaged the county commissioner to ensure residents wouldn’t be evicted from their land. Could I have done that if I wasn’t in government?” he posed rhetorically.

He further praised President Ruto’s leadership, citing flagship programs such as the affordable housing initiative, the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA), and youth empowerment efforts as critical milestones deserving of continuation.

“Ruto deserves two full terms,” Joho asserted.

In a vibrant display of political showmanship, Joho led attendees in singing Ngoma Itambae—a coastal anthem by artists Susumila and Chikuzee—tweaking the lyrics to rally support for Ruto: “Wakichoma wanachomeka kule, wacha Ruto atambae.”

He also took aim at opposition figures, accusing them of hypocrisy and failure to deliver during their past tenures in government.

“Whether deputy president, cabinet secretary, or attorney general — they’ve all held power before,” Joho said. “If they couldn’t bring change then, what new ideas can they offer now?”

Joho’s bold declaration sets the stage for a dynamic political decade, positioning him as a key player in the race to succeed Ruto after 2032 — and signaling a potential realignment in Kenya’s ever-evolving political landscape.