Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has signaled openness to working across political divides, calling for the formation of a united opposition coalition ahead of the next general election.
Speaking amid growing political realignments, Sifuna argued that Kenya’s opposition must come together under a single banner to present a credible alternative to President William Ruto’s administration.
According to the senator, a fragmented opposition risks splitting votes and weakening its chances at the ballot.
He proposed a simplified electoral contest featuring just two main candidates—one representing the incumbent and the other a consolidated opposition—saying such a model would give voters a clearer and more decisive choice.
“Kenyans are asking for new leadership, and it is our responsibility to offer that hope—even if it means uniting across political lines,” Sifuna said. He added that reducing the number of candidates on the ballot would sharpen the contest and avoid voter fatigue.
However, Sifuna was quick to stress that building such a coalition would require careful planning. He called for structured, face-to-face negotiations among opposition leaders to align on policy priorities, leadership, and strategy before settling on a single presidential flagbearer.
The remarks come at a time when political camps are actively exploring alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. Sifuna is currently associated with the “Linda Mwananchi” faction within ODM, a group positioning itself as a youthful force aiming to unseat the current administration.
Other key players are also stepping up their efforts.
The broader United Opposition—bringing together parties such as Wiper, Jubilee, and DAP-K—has been pushing for a unified candidate. Leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, and Eugene Wamalwa are at the forefront of these discussions.
Meanwhile, former Chief Justice David Maraga and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have also emerged as influential voices in the opposition space.
Gachagua, who leads the DCP party, recently extended an open invitation to Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to join his political outfit if they felt sidelined within ODM.
Defending his political mobilisation, Gachagua maintained that promoting his party was both legitimate and necessary.
“Let nobody make me feel like I am committing any political crime by marketing my party. That is my job,” he said.
He described DCP as a party for “Kenyan patriots” but noted that leaders unwilling to join could still collaborate with other opposition outfits such as Wiper.
