- Treasury CS John Mbadi says he will not vie for Homa Bay governor in 2027.
- He hinted at bigger national ambitions, saying he can “only go up.”
- Mbadi reflected on his failed 2022 gubernatorial bid and his current Cabinet role.
- He insisted his focus is on building a progressive Kenya, not job security.
Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has dismissed talk that he plans to contest the Homa Bay governor’s seat in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Tuesday, Mbadi made it clear that returning to county politics is not part of his plans. Instead, he suggested that his political journey is now aimed at higher national leadership.
“I was running for governor of Homa Bay in 2022. That did not materialise. I am now a Cabinet Secretary, and we are in 2026. I can only go up; I don’t want to go down,” he said.
He added that going back to seek the Homa Bay seat would not make sense for him at this stage, noting that he hopes to one day lead the country.
Mbadi’s remarks come years after his unsuccessful attempt to clinch the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat in 2022. Since then, he joined President William Ruto’s Cabinet, a move that surprised many observers.
Known for his long association with the opposition, Mbadi’s appointment was seen as a major political shift. Analysts viewed it as part of efforts by the President to broaden his administration’s appeal across different regions.
Before becoming Cabinet Secretary, Mbadi served as a Member of Parliament for 17 years and built a reputation as an experienced legislator and party strategist.
Earlier this month, while speaking at a public participation forum on Budget and Privatisation at Kiambu National Polytechnic, Mbadi said his priority is shaping a better Kenya rather than worrying about his political future.
He told participants that leadership should be about improving citizens’ lives, not about individuals holding onto positions.
“Even if you remove us in 2027 and I go home, I will still eat. I will not die of hunger,” he said, adding that changing leaders alone does not solve economic challenges.
The Treasury CS pointed to his three decades of professional experience in both public service and the private sector. He said he has worked at a university, served as a finance director at an international organisation, and spent many years in Parliament before joining the Cabinet.
“With all those years of work, if I don’t have food when we are voted out, whose fault will it be?” he posed.
Mbadi stressed that his ambition goes beyond personal success. He said he wants a country where future generations can access affordable education and better opportunities.
“I don’t have to have a job, but I want a progressive Kenya where my grandchildren can go to school at affordable fees,” he said.
As political conversations begin to take shape ahead of 2027, Mbadi’s comments signal that he is not interested in a county-level comeback. Instead, he appears focused on national leadership and long-term reforms.
For now, he maintains that his energy is directed at strengthening Kenya’s economy and ensuring sustainable development for all.
