Tiaty MP William Kamket has ignited controversy after publicly declaring his unwavering commitment to securing President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027 “by any means,” remarks that have triggered fresh concerns about the credibility of the upcoming general election.
Speaking during a traditional dowry ceremony involving families of Immigration Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang and businessman David Langat, Kamket stated that he and Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi would ensure the ballot boxes are filled in favour of Ruto. “Oscar and I say harsh things. He says if the ballot box does not fill up, we will add. I say it in another way, but we say the same thing if the votes are not enough, we will ensure that they are enough, whatever comes may,” Kamket said.
While Sudi later sought to clarify his stance, emphasizing that they only intend to “fill the boxes with votes, nothing else,” the rhetoric has nonetheless sparked alarm among political observers and the public.
Kamket also took a swipe at critics of the Kenya Kwanza administration, asserting that the audience at the event was already committed to backing Ruto’s second term. “There is no need to preach to the already converted,” he remarked.
The incident follows a similarly inflammatory statement by Wajir Woman Representative Fatuma Jeho, who recently declared at a rally that the ruling side would “steal votes” in 2027 to ensure Ruto’s re-election. Her remarks drew a sharp rebuke from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which labelled them “reckless and unacceptable.”
“Statements suggesting election malpractice undermine the credibility of our democratic institutions,” the IEBC stated, reiterating its commitment to a free, fair, and verifiable election.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi also condemned the remarks, warning leaders to refrain from statements that could erode public trust in electoral institutions. “Such remarks, whether made in jest or not, risk eroding confidence in institutions that safeguard our democracy,” he said.
As political temperatures rise ahead of 2027, calls for accountability and integrity in Kenya’s electoral process are intensifying.
