The meeting, held on February 4, brought together thousands of aspirants seeking to contest various elective positions on the ruling party’s ticket.
President Ruto addressed the gathering and later invited representatives from different regions and positions to briefly interact with him.
In a moment that drew loud reactions from the crowd, Chepkuley emerged as one of the figures warmly received by fellow aspirants.
As the president requested one parliamentary aspirant from Uasin Gishu County to step forward, two individuals moved to the stage.
However, chants from the audience quickly singled out Chepkuley, with many calling out his name in support.
The spontaneous show of recognition highlighted his growing popularity among grassroots political players, many of whom are familiar with his community initiatives and public profile.
Speaking after the meeting, Chepkuley said his brief interaction with the president focused on development priorities affecting Chesumei constituency, where he has declared interest in vying for the parliamentary seat.
He noted that issues of infrastructure, youth empowerment, and the efficient use of public funds featured prominently in the conversation.
“I told the president that young people in rural areas need more practical opportunities to acquire skills and create their own employment. Establishing technical training centres closer to the people would make a real difference,” he said, adding that such institutions could help reduce unemployment and equip youth with hands-on skills.
Chepkuley first gained nationwide attention in 2025 after setting up a locally funded patrol base in his home area following complaints of rising insecurity.
“I told the president that young people in rural areas need more practical opportunities to acquire skills and create their own employment. Establishing technical training centres closer to the people would make a real difference,” he said, adding that such institutions could help reduce unemployment and equip youth with hands-on skills.
Chepkuley first gained nationwide attention in 2025 after setting up a locally funded patrol base in his home area following complaints of rising insecurity.
Frustrated by frequent thefts and slow response times, residents had appealed to him to help address safety concerns.
The initiative, which resembled an official police post, sparked public debate and drew mixed reactions, with some praising his bold community action while others questioned the legality of private citizens establishing security facilities.
Since then, Chepkuley has positioned himself as an advocate for youth involvement in leadership. In recent months, he has openly supported several young political aspirants by helping them pay nomination fees and kick-start their campaigns.
Since then, Chepkuley has positioned himself as an advocate for youth involvement in leadership. In recent months, he has openly supported several young political aspirants by helping them pay nomination fees and kick-start their campaigns.
He says his goal is to encourage leadership renewal and create space for fresh ideas within mainstream politics.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, Chepkuley’s visibility continues to grow, particularly in Uasin Gishu and neighbouring regions.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, Chepkuley’s visibility continues to grow, particularly in Uasin Gishu and neighbouring regions.
Supporters view him as a grassroots figure who understands local challenges, while critics remain cautious about his unconventional rise to prominence.
