Eddie Butita Backs Ruto for Second Term, Throws Support Behind Jalang’o in Nairobi Senate Race

Comedian Eddie Butita has publicly backed President William Ruto’s re-election bid and Lang’ata MP Jalang’o’s Senate ambitions, urging Kenyans to judge leaders by their record rather than political slogans.

Comedian and content creator Eddie Butita has made his political preferences ahead of the 2027 General Election clear, backing President William Ruto for a second term and supporting Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o, for Nairobi Senator.

Butita has also challenged Kenyans who appear certain that Ruto will lose the next election, arguing that the outcome should be decided by voters rather than assumptions made before the ballot.

Speaking in an interview shared on Tuesday, 10 November 2026, Butita said supporters should be prepared to accept the result peacefully, regardless of which candidate wins.

“If Ruto wins, tutakuwa pale Talanta Stadium, tunamuapisha tena. Mtu mwenye atashinda, well and good,” he said.

His remark was a show of confidence in Ruto's chances, with Butita suggesting that the newly built Raila Odinga International Stadium, popularly known as Talanta Stadium, could host the President's second-term inauguration if he wins.

Butita's comments are notable because they go beyond predicting an election outcome. He is openly expressing support for the President while calling for political tolerance among Kenyans who may back opposing candidates.

Butita urges Kenyans to assess Ruto's record

The comedian acknowledged that Ruto's administration has faced criticism and made mistakes. However, he argued that its achievements should also be considered when voters assess its performance.

He challenged critics to look at projects and services delivered by the government instead of allowing political differences to determine their judgement.

Butita suggested that his view was informed partly by personal experiences and interactions, although he did not disclose the details.

He also accepted that his assessment could prove wrong.

“I might be wrong, I might be right, but time will tell the truth,” he said.

His remarks come as political debate over Ruto's 2027 re-election bid continues to intensify, with supporters and opponents increasingly making their positions known.

However, Butita's endorsement is a personal political position, not an indication of how Kenyans intend to vote. The final outcome will depend on the electorate and the candidates who eventually contest the election.

Jalang’o gets Butita's backing for Nairobi Senate

Butita also declared support for Jalang’o, who is seeking to move from the National Assembly to the Senate.

The Lang’ata MP is positioning himself for the Nairobi Senate seat, currently held by Edwin Sifuna.

His potential contest has gained another dimension following East African Legislative Assembly MP Winnie Odinga's announcement on 15 October that she intends to vie for the same position in 2027.

Winnie, daughter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, made her declaration during a memorial event marking the first anniversary of her father's death.

The emerging contest could become a closely watched race, particularly if the aspirants seek the same party ticket. However, neither Jalang’o nor Winnie should be described as having secured a nomination or as being confirmed opponents in the final race. Party nominations and the formal electoral process are still ahead.

Butita's support adds a public endorsement to Jalang’o's ambitions, although it does not determine the eventual Nairobi Senate candidates.

Butita questions political slogans

The comedian also took aim at the use of catchy political slogans such as wantam and tutam, arguing that voters should pay closer attention to what different elective positions actually involve.

He urged Kenyans to understand the responsibilities of the President, MPs and governors before deciding who deserves their support.

The point is particularly relevant to the Senate race. Senators do not perform the same duties as MPs or governors. Their responsibilities include representing counties in the Senate, participating in legislation affecting county governments and overseeing the equitable allocation of national revenue to counties.

Butita's message was that voters should look beyond campaign excitement and consider candidates' understanding of their responsibilities and ability to deliver.

With the 2027 election approaching, his comments offer a glimpse of how public figures are beginning to shape political conversations. But the real test for the candidates will be whether their campaign promises and records persuade voters when they head to the ballot.

About the Author

Maureen Onyango is a journalist passionate about storytelling, life coaching and spiritual lessons. She studied at the Kenya Institute of Management and enjoys telling stories that inform, inspire and empower communities.