Sifuna-Led Kenya Moja Alliance to Undermine Ruto, Gachagua 2027 Strategy

A new political coalition, Kenya Moja, is poised to significantly alter Kenya's political landscape in the run-up to the 2027 General Election. 

The alliance, spearheaded by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, and comprising a cross-section of Members of Parliament (MPs) from various regions, presents itself as a reform-oriented alternative to the established political factions led by President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The unveiling of Kenya Moja occurred at a public event in Trans Nzoia County, where Sifuna openly denounced the possibility of ODM endorsing President Ruto’s re-election bid. 

Joining Sifuna in this new political initiative are Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga, Bumala MP Jack Wamboka, Kaiti MP Joshua Kimilu, and Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo. This force seeks to challenge deeply entrenched tribal and partisan loyalties and to mobilise a disenchanted electorate, particularly amongst Kenya's younger population. 

The stakes are considerable. Gachagua, who faced impeachment as Deputy President in 2024, has since aligned himself with Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, and Dr Matiang’i. Kenya Moja, however, has chosen not to join this coalition, opting instead to establish a distinct identity that critiques both the government and the opposition. This strategic ambiguity has unsettled traditional power structures, prompting warnings from Gachagua about attempts to "cannibalise" the opposition.

Political analysts suggest that Kenya Moja's emergence may fulfil the popular sentiment expressed in last year’s slogan, "Kufa dereva kufa makanga"—a metaphorical call for the removal of both Ruto and Gachagua from the political arena. Some analysts even propose that Raila Odinga, long regarded as a pivotal figure in opposition politics, should step aside to allow for generational change. Raila's recent integration into Ruto's government has created a void in the opposition, which Kenya Moja now aims to fill. 

Despite its claims as a youth-led movement, Kenya Moja faces scrutiny regarding its demographic composition. While its rhetoric appeals to Gen Z voters—those aged between 13 and 28—its leadership predominantly consists of older individuals, with Sifuna aged 43 and Wamuchomba aged 50. Political analyst Festus Wangwe points out this discrepancy, arguing that Kenya Moja’s credibility among younger voters depends on its capacity to translate digital-era grievances into concrete policy proposals.

Gen Z activist Billy Mwangi, a survivor of political abduction in Embu County, encapsulates this generational shift, stating, "We don’t care about tribe or religion. We have been shaped by the internet and trauma. We want real change." 

Babu Owino, MP for Embakasi East, aged 35, has welcomed Kenya Moja’s anti-Ruto stance but cautioned against further fragmentation within the opposition. "Splintered opposition is an advantage to the common political enemy," he warned, advocating for unity among reformist forces.

Sifuna has hinted at the possibility of courting Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, a move that could destabilise Gachagua’s coalition. Simultaneously, Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni is seeking Matiang’i’s support on behalf of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, raising the prospect of a leadership struggle within the Mt Kenya region between Kenyatta and Gachagua.

Political scientist John Okumu interprets Kenya Moja’s actions as a deliberate effort to weaken both Ruto and Gachagua, positioning the alliance as a fresh option for voters seeking an alternative to the status quo. Peter Kagwanja, another commentator, characterises the current realignments as a period of "trial mode"—a series of political manoeuvrings aimed at establishing viable partnerships ahead of 2027.

According to Harman Manyora, the primary contest remains between Ruto and Gachagua, with other political actors revolving around their influence. However, Gasper Odhiambo argues that victory in 2027 will hinge on strategic alliances across key voting blocs. Ruto must secure either Raila’s base or the Mt Kenya region, while Gachagua needs to solidify Mt Kenya and attract support from Ukambani or the youth vote.