Leaders aligned with President William Ruto held a rally in Marsabit County, where National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah told residents they would not need visas or flights to experience Singapore-level development. He promised to bring that kind of progress right to their doorstep through ongoing projects like new stadiums.
The event took place earlier in Marsabit town. Speakers included MP Kimani Ichung’wah, Kibwezi West MP Mwengi Mutuse, and Farouk Kibet, a close aide to the president. Crowds gathered at an open ground, with locals listening to messages about unity and government delivery.
“Sahi hamtahitaji visa ama kupanda ndege kuenda Singapore, tutawaletea Singapore hapa Marsabit!” Kimani Ichungwa entices Marsabit residents. “Ruto anapigwa vita sababu anatetea watu wa North Eastern!” Mwengi Mutuse added. “Hapa Marsabit ndio wamama hawakuwangi na mpango wa kando!” Farouk Kibet causes laughter in Marsabit.
Ichung’wah spoke directly to the audience about growth. He said the path to Singapore starts with visible changes like the stadiums under construction in the county. Residents should not think about leaving Marsabit for better places abroad. Instead, those opportunities would come home. His words aimed at exciting people about local investments in sports and infrastructure.
Mutuse added his voice on politics. He claimed Ruto faces attacks mainly because he stands up for people in northeastern counties like Marsabit. The MP pointed to efforts in security, water projects, and roads as proof.
He urged locals to rally behind the president amid opposition from figures like former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
Kibet brought some light moments. He joked that women in Marsabit do not keep side partners, known locally as “mpango wa kando”. The line drew laughs from the crowd. It seemed like a way to connect on cultural notes while keeping the mood upbeat.
Marsabit is in Kenya’s dry north, just next to Ethiopia. The county has had to deal with problems including droughts, bad roads, and fights over resources in the past. The government has recently built boreholes, schools, and health centres to make life better there. This rally is part of the UDA party’s larger efforts, especially because grassroots elections are coming to an end this month.
Today, UDA held more elections in several places, like sections of Marsabit. Leaders used the rally to get people to show up and stay loyal. The party wants to build up its support base before the 2027 elections. Ichung’wah said he was sure he could create the next administration, maybe with help from groups like ODM.
After the clips came out, people in the area had different opinions online. Some others liked the promises and said that Nairobi has to pay more attention to Marsabit. Some people wondered if words would convert into action, remembering promises that had been broken in the past. One post noted the county’s diverse communities, from Borana to Rendille, all wanting fair shares in development.
Security stayed tight at the venue. Police kept watch as speakers took turns. No incidents came up, and the event ended peacefully. Farouk Kibet wrapped up by calling for peace and patriotism, echoing themes from other recent stops.
This rally fits a pattern of government figures visiting marginal areas. Ichung’wah fired direct shots at them during his speech, saying they lack sense.
For Marsabit locals, talk of Singapore-style changes means better jobs and services. Water scarcity remains a big issue, with recent rains helping but not solving it.
Party chairperson Cecily Mbarire mentioned a special meeting for UDA leaders on Monday to discuss elections. That could shape how these rallies play out next. Sensitisation efforts continue in places like Marsabit to build support.
People in the crowd included women’s groups and youth. Some held signs backing Ruto. The jokes from Kibet helped ease any tension. Overall, the messages centred on progress and standing together.
As clips spread further, more Kenyans weigh in. Residents hope the promises hold this time. For now, the rally leaves them talking about a brighter future close to home.