Nevertheless , political analysts have noted that despite the opposition appearing to have a strong chance of defeating President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election, that comes only if they unite behind a single candidate.
While President Ruto is entering the final phase of his first term with a coalition held together more by political deals, the challenge is that the opposition has not demonstrated unity
For more than a year now, opposition leaders have been discussing a criteria for selecting a joint presidential candidate without reaching any agreement.
Plans for the leaders to meet and discuss a single candidate have been postponed several times, with Gachagua arguing that announcing a candidate too early would give President Ruto time to politically sabotage the ticket.
Political analyst Gasper Odhiambo says the criteria show that the leaders are clearly divided.
“Each leader already believes certain criteria favor them personally. This shows there is an underlying conflict,” he said.
Gachagua says he is the most suitable candidate because of his ability to mobilize people, raise campaign funds, and command strong influence in the Mount Kenya region.
On his part, Kalonzo Musyoka says his more than 15 years of fighting different administrations gives him an advantage as the opposition candidate.
Former Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i appears to rely on arguments of integrity, performance, and a scientific selection process.
Martha Karua has also said no leader should consider themselves superior to others, emphasizing that all are equal within the coalition.
However, analysts say the biggest issue troubling many Kenyans is not the candidates’ age or financial strength, but who truly understands the struggles of ordinary citizens.
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