Not Qualified? Bad News for Sifuna as Details Emerge on Why He May Not Become President in 2027

Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has cast doubt on Edwin Sifuna’s chances of becoming Kenya’s president in the 2027 General Election.

Speaking during a media interview on Sunday, October 4, Wanga said the opposition would face a difficult task agreeing on one presidential candidate. She argued that the divisions within the opposition could hurt Sifuna’s bid.

Her remarks come just a day after Sifuna unveiled The Equitable Party (TEP), which has emerged as his political vehicle as he seeks to contest the presidency in 2027.

Sifuna has in recent weeks increased his political activities after falling out with ODM. He has since moved closer to the Linda Mwananchi movement, where he has been presented as a presidential candidate.

Wanga, however, believes the opposition may struggle to unite behind one candidate. She pointed to the absence of the kind of unity that existed under the late Raila Odinga, saying this could make it difficult for any opposition candidate to mount a strong national campaign.

She also warned that the opposition could lose valuable time if it delays settling on a presidential candidate.

According to Wanga, a candidate needs enough time to travel across the country, build networks and introduce themselves to voters before the election. She said President William Ruto already has an advantage because he has continued moving across the country and engaging voters.

The comments come as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 polls.

Sifuna’s launch of TEP on Sunday attracted attention, although several prominent opposition leaders were absent from the event. Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma questioned the absence of leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua and Fred Matiang’i.

Meanwhile, ODM has announced a series of political activities across the country in October, including a major Nairobi rally scheduled for October 31.

With the opposition still divided over its preferred presidential candidate, Sifuna’s next political moves will be closely watched as the 2027 election approaches.

Scavenger [email protected]