In a recent sermon, Pastor Ezekiel Odero of the New Life Prayer Center in Kilifi prophesied that President William Ruto will secure a second term in the 2027 elections, despite facing widespread public criticism.
The pastor emphasized that, regardless of voter participation, Ruto’s reelection is inevitable.
“In 2027, whether you vote or not, on the day the results are announced, even if you don’t watch the news, someone will think this pastor has some deal with the president,” he stated.
Pastor Ezekiel also cautioned the public against discouraging the president from giving offerings to the church. He suggested that while the current economic situation is challenging, the future holds prosperity that may lead citizens to reconsider their stance on his leadership.
“If you push the president to stop making offerings in church, you might succeed. Right now, the economy is bad. But in the future, it will improve so much that you will wonder whether to extend or reduce his term,” he added.
This is not the first time Pastor Ezekiel has made predictions concerning President Ruto. In May 2024, he led prayers against the spirit of untimely death targeting the president and his family, asserting that Ruto possesses a “kingly anointing” and was chosen by God.
This latest prediction comes at a time when President Ruto’s administration is grappling with public discontent over its economic policies.
According to recent reports, the Kenyan economy has been under strain due to rising taxes, a controversial housing levy, and health insurance taxes that have yet to benefit many citizens.
Moreover, protests against government policies have been a recurring theme since Ruto took office. Significant pushback against proposed tax laws led to their nullification by the Court of Appeal in 2024. Following widespread public opposition and Gen-Z-led protests that nearly collapsed his administration, Ruto ultimately abolished the Finance Bill 2024.
The context of Pastor Ezekiel’s prediction is layered with Kenya’s political dynamics. President Ruto has faced criticism from various sectors, including the church, which was once a key supporter during his 2022 election campaign.
A BBC article from late 2024 highlighted how Ruto’s relationship with church leaders has deteriorated, with some leaders likening him to a biblical tax collector—a point of contention in his administration’s narrative.
Despite these challenges, the pastor’s remarks suggest that Ruto’s political resilience and a potential economic turnaround could secure his reelection.
Political analysts have weighed in on the prediction, with some dismissing it as mere rhetoric while others acknowledge the influence of religious leaders in shaping public opinion.
“Pastor Ezekiel’s statements cannot be taken lightly. He commands a significant following, and his words could sway voters, especially in the Coastal region and beyond,” political analyst Martin Andati told Kenya Insights. “However, the 2027 election will ultimately be decided by the government’s performance, particularly in addressing economic hardships.”
President Ruto, who assumed office in September 2022, has consistently defended his economic policies, arguing that they are necessary for long-term growth. His administration has focused on initiatives such as affordable housing, agricultural revitalization, and job creation. However, critics argue that these efforts have yet to yield tangible results for ordinary citizens.
As the debate over Pastor Ezekiel’s prediction continues, one thing is clear: the road to 2027 will be shaped by the government’s ability to address the pressing concerns of Kenyans. Whether Ruto’s reelection is divinely ordained or politically earned remains to be seen.
