Billionaire businessman and Safina Party leader Jimi Wanjigi has extended praise to President William Ruto.
The remarks came during a visit to ACK St James Cathedral in Kiambu, where Wanjigi acknowledged the President’s contributions to the church’s infrastructure.
This marks a notable shift from Wanjigi’s previous criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration. For years, he has openly challenged the government’s economic policies and highlighted citizens’ hardships.
The cathedral event focused on the completion of ongoing construction projects. Wanjigi described Ruto’s financial support as commendable, noting the President had “done a very good job” in this context.
Analysts view this as a strategic political move. By praising Ruto in Kiambu, Wanjigi appears to prioritize development agendas over personal or partisan conflict.
The two leaders have a history of tension. Wanjigi was actively involved in the 2024 anti-government protests and has often advocated for transparency in public debt management.
The Safina Party’s presence at the event hints at a broader political strategy. Wanjigi’s alignment with grassroots projects could help him retain influence in the Mt. Kenya region ahead of future contests.
President Ruto’s supporters welcomed the remarks, seeing them as recognition of the administration’s commitment to community-led development.
Skeptics, however, question the sincerity of the praise, viewing it as a potential maneuver in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Unity was a key theme during the service, with both religious and political leaders urging Kenyans to set aside partisan differences.
The cathedral project has been a long-standing initiative for Kiambu residents. Contributions from the presidency and other supporters have helped bring the project close to completion.
Wanjigi also emphasized “agenda politics,” signaling a shift from tribal mobilization to result-oriented governance and accountability.
The event, captured on video, has sparked online discussion, with many analyzing the implications for future political alliances and possible collaborations.
