Why Coast is central in Ruto's 2027 re-election bid
President William Ruto is aggressively targeting the Coast region for his 2027 re-election bid by focusing on land reform and major infrastructure projects. By issuing title deeds and launching the East Africa Petroleum Refinery, he aims to erode the opposition's traditional stronghold in the area.
Why it matters
This illustrates the strategic use of state resources and development projects as political tools to shift voter loyalty in historically marginalized regions.
President William Ruto is stepping up efforts to win support at the Coast, with land reforms and major development projects at the centre of his forays.
His sustained visits to the region that has traditionally leaned towards the opposition point to a political push targeting historically marginalised areas ahead of next year's election.
Yesterday, Ruto launched the Sh2.2 trillion East Africa Petroleum Refinery project in Lamu, promising the investment would create jobs and business opportunities for residents.
The refinery to be constructed by business mogul Aliko Dangote is among several major investments the President is presenting as part of efforts to transform the Coast into an energy and logistics hub.
The Lamu project came as Ruto continued an eight-day development tour covering Taita Taveta, Kwale, Kilifi, Mombasa, Tana River and Lamu.
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