Kenya Moja’s ‘third force’ dream begins to fade

While the outfit projected itself as an independent political force last year, charting a course distinct from the ruling UDA, ODM and their allied parties, it has not held meetings in recent months. Key figures are instead focusing more on their individual political futures.

The group, which includes Nairobi Senator and ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Saboti MP Caleb Amisi and Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, last year sparked debate about the emergence of a possible political alternative or “third force” ahead of the 2027 polls.

They held consultative meetings and community engagement forums across the country, signalling an effort to build a grassroots base outside existing power blocs.

Their last such meeting was held in Kisii in November, where they criticised President William Ruto’s State of the Nation address, describing it as an early launch of his 2027 campaign manifesto.

Since then, the meetings have slowed as members become more absorbed in party and regional politics.

Sifuna, for instance, has missed several ODM meetings, amid indications of growing internal pressure within the party.

With signs pointing to a possible coalition between ODM and UDA, Sifuna, a vocal critic of the broad-based government, is widely expected to consider alternative political options.

In August last year, Sifuna said ODM backing Ruto for a second term would mark his departure point, a position also expressed by Amisi.

Asked about the apparent slowdown, Wamuchomba maintained that the group is united and recently met informally.

“The group is still there and we still meet,” she said.

“From the lessons I learnt from 2007, I have always purposed to work with people from other parts of the country. In Kenya Moja, we have representation from across regions, which helps you think with the map of Kenya in mind.”

Wamuchomba, who until recently was politically aligned with Rigathi Gachagua, said she has since taken a step back to focus on constituency work. She said she plans to engage Githunguri residents in March next year to outline her political direction.

Amisi also dismissed claims that the group is losing momentum, insisting the movement remains intact.

However, members of the group are under sustained criticism in their respective parties.

Amisi, like Sifuna, has been outspoken in his criticism of both the broad-based government and ODM’s current leadership.

Babu Owino, who has expressed interest in the Nairobi governor seat, has said he will contest the position either on the ODM ticket or another platform.

While he initially signalled openness to alternative political arrangements, he has recently indicated he may pursue his ambitions from within ODM. He has since called for a National Delegates Convention as part of his push for party leadership.

The leaders’ search for a coherent political direction has also been shaped by regional considerations.

Kitutu Chache MP Antony Kibagendi, for example, is aligning himself with Jubilee presidential aspirant Fred Matiang’i, who hails from the region.

As a result, questions persist about Kenya Moja’s future, including whether its members will align with broader opposition formations, such as the United Opposition, pivot to the ruling Kenya Kwanza or return to their parties, such as ODM.