President William Ruto has called on leaders to tone down 2027 political campaigns and instead focus on entrenching development to Kenyans.

Dr Ruto's appeal comes amidst a widening rift in the Mt Kenya region with leaders splitting their political allegiance between Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.

Recently, a crack has emerged among leaders as the 2027 election realignments takes shape.

Speaking at Ngangarithi Primary School in Nyeri Town Constituency, Dr Ruto termed the ongoing political tussles as unnecessary.

Dr Ruto was presiding over the official launch of AIPCA Central and Western Archdiocese.

“We have been given the leadership mantle by the people of Kenya to serve them. Let us keep off from the 2027 elections and focus on service delivery. It is only God who knows about 2027,” Dr Ruto said.

"That is why I am humbly telling all leaders to cease premature politics and instead focus on development," he added.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was supposed to accompany the Head of State, but was attending a church service in Kirinyaga.

Throughout the event, the DP's seat that was next to the President's remained vacant.

The head of state donated Sh2 million towards pupils who were recently injured during a fire incident at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County.

The President was accompanied by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga and MPs Wachira Karani (Laikipia West), Maina Mathenge (Nyeri Town), Wambugu Wainaina (Othaya), Njoroge Wainaina (Kieni), John Kiarie (Dagoretti South), Mary Maingi (Mwea), Eric Wamumbi (Mathira), and Geoffrey Wandeto (Tetu).

Other leaders were Laikipia Woman Representative Jane Kagiri, Murang'a Woman Representative Betty Maina, EALA MP Kanini Kega, President Ruto's advisor Moses Kuria, and local MCAs.

Mr Mathenge said him together with Governor Kahiga had agreed to cease politicking.

"We are in church today. My governor and I agreed today that we respect the place of worship and cease politicking. Let us dedicate this moment specifically to pray and worship," Mr Mathenge said.