President Ruto dismisses Azimio revival, defends broad-based gov't agenda

Addressing a rally in Pipeline Estate, Nairobi, the Head of State argued that Azimio’s reorganisation ahead of the 2027 General Election holds little weight, insisting the coalition lost relevance following its defeat in the last polls.

He maintained that any attempt to resurrect it without ODM’s participation was “an empty shell.”

President Ruto used the rally, his second consecutive weekend engagement in the capital, to urge residents to support his bid for a second term in 2027, saying this would allow him to complete his development agenda and deliver what he described as a “first-world economic vision” for the country.

He defended ongoing cooperation talks between the United Democratic Alliance and ODM under the banner of a broad-based government, saying the arrangement was necessary to stabilise the economy and reduce the cost of living. According to the President, the government is investing in multi-billion-shilling infrastructure projects aimed at accelerating economic growth and easing pressure on households.

The President said the broad-based approach would promote national unity and inclusive development, countering what he termed divisive politics. He added that the model would ensure equitable service delivery across regions and communities as part of his long-term “Singapore dream” for Kenya.

Earlier in the day, while attending a church service at AIC Pipeline alongside Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, President Ruto said proposed tax relief measures would be prioritised when Parliament resumes. He indicated that a bill would be tabled to exempt Kenyans earning KSh30,000 and below from income tax.

The President also announced enhanced cooperation between the national and county governments to improve service delivery in Nairobi. Responding to concerns raised by Governor Sakaja over alleged cartels within the lands ministry linked to demolitions in Mukuru, President Ruto said the government would intervene to protect residents and restore order.

He said the revitalisation of Nairobi would serve as a benchmark for the administration’s broader development agenda, positioning the capital as a model for economic transformation and efficient urban governance.