Ruto Allies Target Raila’s Strongholds in Joint 2027 Campaign

Pro-government leaders from Nyanza and Western Kenya are planning a coordinated campaign to secure support for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The campaign is being led by Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, who wants to expand Ruto’s support in areas that have traditionally backed the late Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The leaders are targeting an estimated seven million votes from the two regions.

A key part of the strategy is to secure the deputy presidency for a politician from the two regions. ODM insiders have mentioned Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as a possible running mate for Ruto.

Supporters of the plan believe Oparanya could appeal to voters who previously supported Odinga, particularly in Luo Nyanza. The number of registered voters in the region is projected to increase from 2.41 million to 2.78 million by 2027.

Western Kenya is also expected to see its voter population rise, from about 2.9 million to 3.4 million. The projected growth highlights the electoral importance of the two regions ahead of the election.

The strategy faces opposition from the Linda Mwananchi movement, a breakaway faction that has rallied behind Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. The movement includes Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Kakamega Senator Boni Khakwale.

Political divisions have also emerged in Luo Nyanza following Odinga’s death. Siaya Governor James Orengo is among the leaders who have broken ranks and aligned themselves with Sifuna.

Ruto’s allies are seeking to counter the divisions by highlighting the president’s development record. Wandayi has cited the revival of Mumias and Nzoia sugar companies as evidence of Ruto’s commitment to Western Kenya. He has contrasted the developments with what he described as neglect during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.

Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula has called on leaders from Nyanza and Western Kenya to develop a joint political strategy extending beyond the 2027 election and potentially supporting a presidential bid in 2032. ODM leaders have rejected the challenge from Linda Mwananchi. 

National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has dismissed the movement as another political opponent and pledged to defend ODM’s traditional support bases. Migori Senator Eddy Oketch has called on Luo and Luhya voters to support Ruto’s re-election, arguing that such support could strengthen their position in negotiations over the presidency in the following decade.