Why Sifuna, Wamuchomba’s Kenya Moja outfit could seek the presidency

Why Sifuna, Wamuchomba’s Kenya Moja outfit could seek the presidency

The caucus also includes leaders such as Caleb Hamisi (Saboti), Jack Wamboka (Bumula), Oscar Nabulindo (Matungu) and Babu Owino (Embakasi East), who have vowed to push for generational change at the ballot, citing failed leadership, poor accountability and weak governance.

The Kenya Moja political grouping, led by Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, could produce a presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election.

In an interview with the Eastleigh Voice, Gathoni lifted the lid on the outfit’s agenda, saying major political players in the country can no longer ignore them as they are poised to upset the status quo and change the nature of politics and governance in Kenya.

The caucus also includes leaders such as Caleb Hamisi (Saboti), Jack Wamboka (Bumula), Oscar Nabulindo (Matungu) and Babu Owino (Embakasi East), who have vowed to push for generational change at the ballot, citing failed leadership, poor accountability and weak governance.

Others leaning towards the Kenya Moja coalition include Clive Gisaire (Kitutu Masaba), Joshua Kimilu (Kaiti) and Majimbo Kalasinga (Kabuchai).

“This group we have formed is simply a political caucus of like-minded leaders. We have allowed a certain kind of politician to dominate our politics for too long. Instead of offering solutions, they are digging us into a deeper hole,” said Gathoni.

She further stated that members of the grouping are disillusioned by the tribal nature of Kenyan politics, warning that it risks tearing the nation apart if left unchecked.

“We have segregated this country along tribal lines. The right thing is to come together and say: Enough is enough to these tribal narratives,” she added.

According to Gathoni, in their bid to rescue the country from backward politics and tribal affiliations, they may either register a political party or join forces with other like-minded outfits.

“We are not a political party. But if our union evolves into one for the sake of the people, then so be it. If our advocacy transforms into a coalition that Kenyans can trust to lead the country, so be it,” she said.

When asked whether they are keen on challenging President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027, Gathoni was categorical that the group could indeed front a presidential candidate.

“Many people are asking me what Kenya Moja means, and I ask them: is there anything wrong with like-minded leaders coming together for the sake of their country? If one of us decides to run for president, what’s the problem?” she posed.

ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna. (Photo: Parliament of Kenya)

The group appears to be advocating for a new generation of leadership and is potentially preparing for the 2027 polls.

Their activities, which include community gatherings and strategic discussions, suggest an active effort to build a strong political movement. These initiatives, however, have put them at odds with their respective parties.

Caleb Hamisi recently announced that the caucus will continue holding kikao na wamama (loosely translated as Women Empowerment forums) in all wards, constituencies and counties.

“This is the third declaration: William Ruto will be a one-term president, and all future presidents shall serve only one term unless they deliver. We want to lead the third and final liberation as Team Fresh Kenya. Team Renaissance. Kenya needs a renaissance,” said Hamisi.

Already, Sifuna has declared that he will quit ODM should the party endorse Ruto’s re-election in 2027.

“I am ready to read all ODM statements, even if they insult me, I will read them. But the day the ODM decides to support Ruto in 2027, I want to say before you and before God, that’s something I will not read,” said Sifuna.

The Nairobi Senator, who commands significant urban support, especially among youth and progressive voices, has been a consistent critic of Ruto’s administration, particularly the broad-based government, which he accuses of undermining the Constitution and violating human rights.

“I want William Ruto to know that his removal from office is a national priority; it is the only agenda because his government has completely betrayed the Constitution,” he added.

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