Allies of President William Ruto have extended a qualified welcome to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to tour the South Rift, warning that large crowds do not equate to political support for the 2027 General Election.

• Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot stated that while Gachagua is welcome, his hospitality should not be mistaken for votes, citing past instances where large turnouts did not translate to election wins.
• Key figures involved include President William Ruto's allies, such as Aaron Cheruiyot, six Members of Parliament, and former Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto.
• This shift in stance occurs as Kenya Kwanza leaders increasingly traverse opposition strongholds, and follows Gachagua's announcement of his own tour to address perceived unfulfilled development promises in the Rift Valley.