Sifuna now a top running mate pick in opposition line-up

Early manoeuvres to shape a united opposition ticket for the 2027 polls have started, with Senator Edwin Sifuna emerging as a leading contender for the running mate slot.

The development comes amid informal but intensifying negotiations to craft a formidable line-up to face President William Ruto.

Details of behind-the-scenes engagements between the opposition and the fast-rising Linda Mwananchi movement reveal a cautious but deliberate effort to build a solid team against Ruto.

Sources familiar with the talks say the meetings, though still unofficial, have brought together key players seeking a coalition that can avoid past divisions and mount a serious presidential bid.

The latest of such meetings was held two weeks ago, with insiders indicating that Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Sifuna featured prominently in early discussions around a possible presidential and deputy presidential ticket.

“It is true, talks have been going on, but I must say they are still informal. A formal meeting will only happen when we call for a retreat as the opposition,” Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale confirmed.

Khalwale said various names have been floated for the top two positions, underscoring the fluidity of the negotiations.

“Of course, names are there. We say these are our people and others also say theirs. But it is work in progress. We will continue with the meetings,” he added.

Multiple sources say Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka currently enjoys broad goodwill among some opposition leaders, placing him ahead in the early calculations for the presidential slot.

However, it is Sifuna’s rising political profile that has stirred momentum around the deputy position.

The ODM secretary general, who has been at the centre of the Linda Mwananchi wave sweeping across the country, is increasingly being viewed as the opposition’s best bet to galvanise young voters and expand national appeal.

“Sifuna is seen as energetic, bold and capable of connecting with the youth across the country,” a source privy to the talks said.

His recent rallies under the Linda Mwananchi banner have drawn large crowds, signalling a growing grassroots base that strategists believe could prove decisive in a tight race.

Sifuna is said to be ahead of other potential running mates, including Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa.

“Sifuna represents more than a voice. He represents a direction. His style—direct, unfiltered and often confrontational—resonates with a younger, more impatient constituency,” political observer Prof Gitile Naituli said.

While Natembeya is gaining traction in Western politics, insiders say his national reach remains limited. The governor has also previously indicated a preference to defend his seat.

Political analyst Martin Andati argues that Sifuna’s trajectory places him firmly in the 2027 equation.

“Sifuna has a very bright future ahead of him, although he needs some experienced hands like James Orengo and others to guide him as he navigates national politics,” Andati said.

He added; “It is highly likely that he will be on the ballot, either as President or running mate.”

Sifuna has signalled openness to working with other opposition factions, repeatedly emphasising unity as the key to unseating President Ruto.

“We must be one force against William Ruto. We must defeat him by at least five million votes to truly send a message. Linda Mwananchi’s goal is not to split votes,” he said in a recent television interview.

Addressing concerns that his movement could fragment the opposition, Sifuna was categorical.

“I want to assure anybody who believes that our country cannot afford another five-year term for Ruto—we will not be the problem,” he said.

His stance appears to have reassured some opposition figures who had initially viewed the Linda Mwananchi outfit with suspicion.

Last week, it also emerged that the broader opposition has been actively courting Sifuna’s camp, even as internal divisions within ODM continue to play out.

However, analysts warn that settling on a joint ticket could prove contentious, given the number of heavyweight politicians eyeing the presidency.

Among those who have declared interest are former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, Jubilee deputy party leader Fred Matiang’i, and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua.

Gachagua has insisted he will be on the ballot, even as he expresses willingness to work with other opposition leaders.

“We are part of this team and will walk this journey together to liberate this country,” Gachagua said last year.

His influence in the vote-rich Mt Kenya region makes him a key figure in any opposition arithmetic.

Beyond the numbers, the region is also home to influential business interests that have historically played a critical role in financing presidential campaigns—a factor that could shape coalition negotiations.

Analysts say Mt Kenya is likely to demand a significant stake in any opposition arrangement.

“As for the others, like Matiang’i, it is about numbers. What are you bringing to the table that would enable the team to win, not just being on the ballot for the sake of it,” Andati said.

Matiang’i, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary, is also emerging as a formidable contender.

Often referred to as “Mr Fix It” during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, he is credited with a tough, results-driven leadership style that appeals to sections of the electorate.

He is believed to have consolidated support in the Gusii region and is also attracting growing interest among Gen Z voters, who have been vocal online in pushing his candidature.

During last year’s youth-led protests and ongoing digital activism, Matiang’i’s name has frequently trended, with young Kenyans urging him to enter the race.

“Matiang’i, you either come out or we come for you. We need you for President in 2027—and we’re not asking politely,” read one viral social media post.

Political analyst Prof Kaburu Kinoti says Matiang’i’s assertiveness could make him a strong match against President Ruto.

“Matiang’i is tough and that is good, especially when facing someone like Ruto. Even if the opposition loses, they will keep the government in check,” Kinoti said.

Kinoti added that a Kalonzo–Matiang’i ticket could also emerge as a compromise formula, given their past ties and shared political networks linked to the former president.