Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi used the 61st national Labour Day celebrations at Chavakali High School in Vihiga County to rally Western Kenya behind President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, in a strongly political address delivered during the historic event.
The Labour Day celebrations marked the first time in Kenya’s history that the national event was held outside Nairobi, drawing senior government officials, workers, union leaders and thousands of residents.
Mudavadi, who played a key hosting role, urged the region to support what he described as continuity in leadership, framing the 2027 election as a critical moment for economic stability and development delivery.
He backed the “TUTAM” (Two Terms) political narrative, calling for unity within Western Kenya in support of the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“The time for political gambling is over. The focus now should be on delivery, stability and completing development projects already underway,” Mudavadi said.
He emphasized what he termed “last mile service delivery,” warning public servants that the administration is in its final stretch of the current term and must fast-track infrastructure, health, and development projects to strengthen its performance record.
Mudavadi also spoke alongside National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, with both leaders calling for unity within the Mulembe nation, suggesting Western Kenya was increasingly aligned with the ruling coalition.
Despite the political messaging, Mudavadi also paid tribute to Kenyan workers, praising their contribution to national development.
“Today, we honour the hands that heal, build, protect, lead and create. To every worker shaping the world with passion, Happy Labour Day,” he said.
He further defended the government’s economic performance, citing international reports ranking Kenya among Africa’s leading economies as evidence that the Bottom-Up economic model was working.
The Labour Day event, held under tight security and heavy rains, also featured calls from labour unions for improved wages and better working conditions, with rising cost of living remaining a key concern for workers.
