By TWV Political Editor
Efforts to forge a united opposition front against President William Ruto in 2027 are unravelling, with internal divisions, personal ambitions, and regional rivalries threatening to derail the search for a single presidential candidate.
Despite repeated calls for unity, opposition leaders appear more focused on consolidating their individual bases than building consensus. Political observers warn that the widening cracks could pave the way for Ruto’s smooth re-election.
In Western Kenya, tensions are rising within the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), led by Eugene Wamalwa, who has clashed with Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. At the same time, Cleophas Malala, deputy party leader of the Democratic Party of Kenya (DPK), is embroiled in a power struggle with his boss, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The rivalry extends into Mount Kenya politics, where allies of Gachagua resent recent efforts by former President Uhuru Kenyatta to front Fred Matiangi as the region’s presidential flag bearer through the Jubilee Party. Gachagua had hoped to consolidate the region under his control, but Jubilee’s resurgence threatens that plan.
Supporters of Matiangi insist that the party will not yield to backing another candidate. They argue that Jubilee must reclaim its place in national politics after its 2022 electoral defeat. Matiangi has accused Ford Kenya and other political forces of scheming against him, while allies of Gachagua label him “untrustworthy”. Gachagua is said to have only tolerated Matiangi’s entry into the opposition on the condition that he did so through a Gusii-based party, not a Mount Kenya one.
Meanwhile, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has ruled out playing second fiddle in 2027. In a recent television interview, Kalonzo declared: “It’s now or never.” He made it clear that he will not serve as a running mate and that his name must appear on the ballot, whether or not the opposition settles on him as their joint candidate. The biggest challenge facing the opposition is agreeing not just on a presidential candidate but also on a running mate.
Each major contender claims to hold the key to victory:
- Gachagua insists he commands the numbers.
- Kalonzo argues that he is the most senior candidate.
- Matiangi contends that his appeal cuts across ethnic boundaries.
The central question remains whether Matiangi can convince Gachagua and Kalonzo that he has the national numbers to mount a credible challenge to Ruto. Beyond political egos and regional power plays, money will be a decisive factor. Experts warn that the 2027 general election is likely to be the most expensive in Kenya’s history, making the ability to mobilise campaign funds a key criterion in selecting a flagbearer.
As things stand, the opposition’s dream of unity appears increasingly remote. With rival camps digging in, the scramble for political supremacy threatens to undermine the very coalition that was meant to counter President Ruto. Unless compromise prevails, the opposition risks entering 2027 fragmented, disorganised, and fatally weakened.
