As Kenya inches closer to the 2027 General Election, the political landscape is already heating up with speculation, alliances, and subtle hints from key figures who may challenge President William Ruto for the top seat.
The 2022 polls were a turning point in Kenyan politics, with Ruto’s victory marking a significant shift in the country’s leadership. Kenyan leaders likely to run for presidency in 2027 However, as his first term progresses, a growing number of influential politicians and public figures have begun positioning themselves as potential contenders for the presidency in 2027. Among them is former chief justice David Maraga, whose name has recently surfaced in political circles as a possible candidate. But Maraga is not alone. Several other prominent Kenyans, including seasoned politicians and fresh faces, have either openly expressed interest or dropped hints about their ambitions to unseat Ruto. From seasoned politicians like Kalonzo Musyoka and Martha Karua to emerging voices like Busia senator Okiya Omtatah and Maraga, the individuals represent a diverse range of ideologies and regional influences that could shape the poll outcome.
1. David Maraga Former chief justice David Maraga is no stranger to the limelight due to his bold and uncompromising stance on constitutional matters. Former chief justice David Maraga has remained critical about adherence to the rule of law. Photo: David Maraga. Source: Getty Images Maraga made history as the head of Kenya’s judiciary, where he played a pivotal role in the nullification of the 2017 presidential election. Since retiring from the Judiciary, Maraga has in recent months emerged as a vocal figure in public discourse, often weighing in on matters of governance and the rule of law. In 2025, rumours began circulating that Maraga was considering a run for the presidency in 2027. Speaking on the sidelines of the People’s Dialogue Festival at Uhuru Park, Nairobi, on Thursday,
March 6, Maraga revealed he was weighing his chances before deciding to make a stab for the top job. He stated that if he is successful in his bid, he would ensure the implementation of the rule of law, which he believes is a major issue in Kenya. Maraga’s potential candidacy would appeal to Kenyans seeking a leader with a strong moral compass and a track record of standing up for justice. 2. Martha Karua Martha Karua, fondly referred to as the Iron Lady, is a formidable force in Kenyan politics. Martha Karua has been championing a united opposition to challenge Ruto. A seasoned politician and former presidential candidate, Karua has built a reputation as a fierce advocate for democracy and gender equality. In the 2022 elections, she was a key ally of Raila Odinga, serving as his running mate in the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party. Although they narrowly lost to Ruto, Karua’s performance on the campaign trail earned her widespread admiration. Karua has already declared her candidacy for the presidency in the 2027 General Election, vowing never to be a running mate again. To actualise her dream, Karua has revamped her Narc Kenya party, renaming it the People’s Liberation Party and adopting unique colours. Despite not galvanising most women voters and progressive Kenyans as expected in 2022, Karua’s candidacy would bank more on the same demographic who believe in her vision of a more equitable society.
3. Okiya Omtatah READ ALSO William Ruto discloses he vowed to treat Raila well, ensure he’s respected: “You’re my senior” Busia senator Okiya Omtatah is a name that resonates with many Kenyans, particularly those who follow public interest litigation and activism. Busia senator Okiya Omtatah at a past court proceeding. Photo: Okiya Omtatah. Source: Twitter Before joining the Senate, Omtatah was a prominent human rights activist who used the courts to challenge government decisions and policies. His transition to politics has been marked by the same zeal for accountability and transparency. In late 2024, Omtatah hinted at the possibility of running for presidency in the 2027 General Election. He stated that his decision stems from a commitment to address systemic issues such as corruption, inequality, and poor governance, which he believes have hindered Kenya’s progress.
His potential candidacy has sparked discussions among Kenyans, with some praising his integrity and others questioning his political experience. Omtatah remains undeterred, asserting that his grassroots activism and dedication to justice qualify him for the role. He also called on citizens to actively participate in shaping the country’s future by holding leaders accountable. 4. Kalonzo Musyoka Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper Democratic Movement, is no stranger to presidential contests. Kalonzo Musyoka vowed to be on the ballot in the 2027 polls. Photo; Kalonzo Musyoka. Source: Instagram Having run for the presidency multiple times, Kalonzo has often been seen as a kingmaker rather than a king. Kalonzo has expressed confidence in his candidacy, stating that many Kenyans have agreed he is the right person to lead the nation. He singled out his experience as a former vice president and his commitment to uniting the country, addressing economic challenges, and improving governance.
Kalonzo also highlighted the need for equitable development and social justice, promising to prioritize the welfare of all citizens if elected. While some supporters have welcomed his decision, others have called for broader consultations to ensure a united front ahead of the elections. With his vast experience and strong support base in the Eastern region, Kalonzo remains a formidable contender. 5. Rigathi Gachagua Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua’s political trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua speaks at a church event. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua. Source: Facebook From being a relatively obscure figure to becoming Ruto’s right-hand man, Gachagua has quickly rose through the ranks before his downfall in 2024 when he was impeached. However, Gachagua has recently hinted at the possibility of contesting for a political seat in the 2027 elections, stating, that he has the influence.
While he did not specify the exact position he intends to vie for, his remarks have sparked speculation about his political ambitions. The former DP would unlikely seek a seat below the deputy president making him prime for the top office. Gachagua’s ambitions would, however, need a miracle since his impeachment locks him out of public office. If he decides to run and everything goes his way, Gachagua would likely leverage his position and influence within the Mt. Kenya region to mount a serious challenge.
6. Eugene Wamalwa Eugene Wamalwa, the former Defense Cabinet Secretary, has long been seen as a bridge between Kenya’s older generation of politicians and the youth. Eugene Wamalwa addresses a past DAP-K party meeting. Photo: Eugene Wamalwa. Source: Twitter The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa officially announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 elections. Speaking in an interview on NTV, Wamalwa stated that the only positions he has yet to hold in government are deputy president and president, stating that he still has time to achieve these goals. Wamalwa expressed confidence in his preparedness and experience to lead the nation into the future. He revealed that his party has already endorsed his candidacy, and he is actively preparing for his presidential bid. To strengthen his chances, he said the DAP-K party is conducting a membership recruitment drive and planning grassroots elections, which will culminate in a national delegates’ meeting to confirm his candidacy.
Reflecting on his political journey, Wamalwa noted that he had postponed his presidential ambitions since 2013, choosing instead to serve the country in various leadership roles. 7. Fred Matiang’i Former Interior Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang’i is widely regarded as one of the most effective administrators in Kenya’s recent history. Fred Matiang’i is considered a technocrat rather than a politician. Photo: Fred Matiang’i. Source: Twitter During his tenure, Matiang’i was credited with restoring order and efficiency in key government departments. Since leaving office, he has kept a relatively low profile, but his name frequently comes up in discussions about potential presidential candidates. The Jubilee party, associated with his former boss retired president Uhuru Kenyatta has recently endorsed him for the highest office, announcing him as their flag bearer. Despite being considered an outsider by some in the political circles, Matiang’i has previously shown the grit to deal with both politics and administration. Reports suggest that he had done the groundwork to assess the viability of his candidacy with his Gusii backyard already vowing to back him.
How will the opposition defeat Ruto As reported earlier, Karua stated that all presidential aspirants will eventually converge on key national issues. Karua emphasised the importance of unity and dialogue in addressing Kenya’s challenges, such as economic inequality, corruption, and governance. She expressed confidence that despite political differences, opposition leaders must work together for the country’s progress.
by Didacus Malowa
