As the 2027 general election draws closer, political heavyweights, including President William Ruto, are strategically aligning themselves with influential figures who can help them secure votes and strengthen their support base across the country.
In recent months, the Head of State has reached out to top politicians such as former President Uhuru Kenyatta, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and the late Mzee Daniel arap Moi’s son, Gideon Moi. By extending an olive branch to his former political rivals, Ruto appears keen on consolidating national unity while also tapping into their political influence and loyal support networks.
Apart from associating with fellow politicians, President William Ruto has also been building close ties with wealthy business figures across the country. As such, a few key business figures from the Mt. Kenya region have been closely associated with him as he intensifies efforts to secure re-election in 2027.
In this segment, Times Digital Kenya highlights some of the most influential Mt. Kenya tycoons who are closely associated with President William Ruto as he gears up for his 2027 re-election bid.
Sam Mburu
Sam Mburu, popularly known as Kiongozi, is the husband of Nakuru Senator Susan Kihika. He is the founder and director of Landmark Freight Services, a clearing and forwarding company based in Mombasa with branches in China. Beyond logistics, Mburu has diversified his investments into apartments and real estate.
Mburu is also known for his long-standing friendship with President William Ruto. Their close relationship dates back to 2007, when they worked together under the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).
The Mt. Kenya tycoon also played an active role in President Ruto’s United Republican Party (URP) campaigns during the 2012/13 elections.
In the 2022 general election, Mburu once again worked closely with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), where he was instrumental in helping his wife, Susan Kihika, clinch the Nakuru Governor seat, while also supporting Ruto’s successful presidential bid.
As the country heads towards the 2027 general election, Sam Mburu has continued to maintain a close relationship with President William Ruto. Recently, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused the billionaire businessman of wielding significant influence in Nakuru, allegedly due to his close ties with the Head of State.
With Ruto seeking re-election, the two are expected to continue working together politically. Mburu’s wife, Susan Kihika, is also anticipated to defend her Nakuru Governor seat under President Ruto’s UDA party in the 2027 polls.
SK Macharia
Royal Media Services (RMS) Chairman Samuel Kamau Macharia is another prominent Mt. Kenya business tycoon who appears to be backing President William Ruto’s re-election bid.
Although the veteran entrepreneur was previously accused of opposing Ruto during the 2022 general election, he has since met with the Head of State, signaling a possible shift in political alignment and renewed cooperation.
SK Macharia, a long-time ally of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, has consistently supported Raila’s presidential bids over the years. However, with Raila now cooperating with President Ruto, the Royal Media Services founder appears to have shifted his stance seemingly aligning himself with Ruto as the Head of State seeks to retain power in the 2027 general election.
