Hamisi Member of Parliament Charles Gimose urged UDA delegates at a gathering in Lugari to make sure they handle things at polling stations for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections. The experienced lawmaker drew on his three terms in office to assure the crowd he knows the ropes, comments that quickly spread online and stirred strong reactions across Kenya this week.
The remarks came during a UDA grassroots delegates forum that brought party supporters together in Kakamega County. Gimose stood before the audience in his distinctive yellow cap and striped shirt, speaking with clear confidence about what lies ahead. His words landed at a time when political temperatures are already rising as parties prepare for the next general election.
Gimose Speaks Out at Lugari Gathering
In his address to the delegates, Gimose laid out his expectations plainly. He told them they needed to step up when the time comes. Many in the crowd listened closely as he shared his background to back up his point.
“I want you as UDA delegates; when you go to the polling stations in 2027, make sure you do some fixing for Ruto,” he said in his speech to the gathering. “I have been in Parliament for 3 terms, and I know how to do things.”
He went on with practical advice mixed in. When you are at the polling station, try to do your job properly. Do it in an appropriate way,” he continued. Gimose warned against overindulgence that could spoil the effort. “Don’t eat too much,” he added, drawing some laughter and nods from those around him.
The event took place under a large tent decorated in party colours, with trees visible in the background and supporters seated nearby. The atmosphere felt charged as local leaders addressed the faithful.
Backlash and Questions Over Election Talk
News of the speech travelled fast after clips appeared on social media. Kenyans from different corners weighed in, with some expressing shock at the open nature of the comments.
Critics quickly pointed out that talk of “fixing/filling” at polling stations raises concerns about fairness in the upcoming vote. Supporters of the ruling party pushed back, saying it was simply about ensuring strong turnout and proper organisation.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has not commented directly on these specific remarks, but reminders about transparent processes continue to circulate.
What the Comments Reveal About Party Strategy
Gimose did not stop at general encouragement. He painted a picture of determination. In his speech to the delegates, he stressed the stakes involved. “A Somali man would become the president of the Republic of Kenya before he loses,” he declared, underscoring his belief in Ruto’s position.
He touched on potential problems too. “If someone comes and says that they don’t like eating… Some people will make a mess, and we won’t be able to work,” he observed, mixing humour with a serious undertone about staying focused.
The Lugari forum is among the wider UDA efforts to grow its base in Western Kenya. Party officials have been holding similar meetings to build support and find candidates for other seats. President Ruto himself has held meetings with aspirants in recent months stressing unity and deliverance of promises.
For many Kenyans watching from afar, the episode reveals the brewing intensity towards 2027. As voter registration progresses, new people come on the political scene, so each meeting gets more attention.
Gimose’s long tenure in office lends him credibility with some, but it also raises questions about how victories were achieved in past cycles.
Hamisi and the surrounding areas are all divided among locals. Some like the directness, seeing it as a sign of commitment. Others worry that if not explained, it could undermine confidence in the electoral process.
Political analysts tracking the developments say such speeches are often more about firing up the base than spelling out actual plans.
As clips continue to circulate, the full context of the day includes calls for hard work and loyalty. Gimose positioned himself as a teacher ready to guide others. “I am a teacher, so I will teach others how to do it,” he mentioned, tying back to his professional roots.