Mixed reactions greet Omtatah’s possible stab at the presidency in 2027

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah's move to declare his intention to vie for the presidency in the 2027 general election has ignited spirited discussions among Kenyans and leaders.

The announcement, made on Saturday, November 23, included the formation of a 10-member Presidential Exploratory Committee to evaluate his suitability as a candidate and devise strategies to address the country’s challenges.

Omtatah described the moment as critical for Kenya, highlighting the urgency to tackle pressing national issues.

The committee’s role will include engaging with citizens, gathering input and crafting solutions to problems facing the country, while also assessing the viability of his candidacy.

The declaration has however drawn a mix of reactions online. While some Kenyans welcomed the idea, others were sceptical about his ability to win the presidency.

Critics highlighted concerns over his political appeal and questioned whether he has the necessary support to succeed in a race dominated by seasoned politicians. Others expressed doubt about his capacity to overcome the strong networks of incumbents, citing past electoral dynamics.

An X user known as Asamoh said, “Unpopular Truth: Omtatah can’t remove Ruto. If you want to remove him, get a solid candidate with support across the country.”

Another X user known as Mbiti Mwondi added, “I stand a better chance being the president of Kenya than Okiya Omutata. I would win the western province votes over him, yeah he’s a good activist but definitely not the man to oust Ruto.”

This is a long shot. I only have one question for Omtatah. If he answers, then he fully got my vote.

Where is your stronghold? because your home county Busia, which your represent in the Senate is an ODM stronghold. So where will you get the block votes?

Remember, statistics…

— Adele (@Adele_lide) November 23, 2024

Some suggested that Omtatah’s strengths might be better suited to other roles in government rather than the presidency.

“For the record, I have nothing against Omtatah. He is a good man. I’d want him to have a powerful position in government, but not as president. Maybe CS for Justice or smth like that,” Jim Njue said.

“Okiya Omtatah for President 2027? He will know the difference between politics and activism,” Rash said.

Announcing an exploratory committee for a presidential bid is not only unrealistic but also risks being perceived as an act of vanity or delusion in the face of William Kipchirchir Ruto's political might. His stronghold on the Kenyan electorate, strategic alliances, and proven…

— Medusa Crypto 🇺🇸 (@Medusa_Crypto_) November 23, 2024

Leaders such as Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei advised Omtatah to consider the immense challenges ahead, particularly the financial implications and the need to build a national appeal.

“To my brother and colleague Senator Okiya Omtatah, while I wish you well in your Presidential bid there are a few things you need to be aware of such as to run a successful presidential campaign you need a minimum of Sh7bn; a voting bloc that's established; a grassroots network that isn't even aware of social media existence/hype plus to vie against H.E Ruto is a toll order who outwitted and outsmarted the government candidate Raila Odinga in 2022 General elections,” Cherargei said.

Others described his bid as an ambitious yet noble effort, acknowledging his commitment to public service while questioning his readiness for the country's top office.

“It's great to dream big, but politics is a numbers game. Okiya Omtatah's 2027 presidential ambitions face a hard truth: without a solid ethnic voting bloc or widespread national appeal, his campaign plan risks being a noble but futile endeavour,” Strategic Advisor and Secretary of Political Affairs Fredrick Okang'o said.

However, Omtatah also received significant support from various quarters, with many lauding his integrity and visionary leadership. His supporters urged Kenyans to focus on how to bolster his popularity rather than dismiss his candidacy outright.

As an ordinary Kenyan, you cannot afford to get caught up in discussions about Omtatah's tribal bloc, financial muscle and influence. That's popularity politics.
What we can talk about rather, is Omtatah's vision, ideas and principles. Beyond shunning thieves, how can we achieve…

— Mack. (@whatMackSays) November 24, 2024

Some praised his history of activism and legal battles, seeing his presidential bid as a natural progression in his public service journey.

If Omtatah has a million votes, then I am one of them. If Omtatah has 10 votes, then I am one of them. If Omtatah has only 1 vote then that is me. If Omtatah has no votes, then that means I am no longer on earth. If the world is against Okiya Omtatah, then I am against the world.

— J (@Jahmu__) November 24, 2024

“Okiya Omtatah is a brilliant man of great wisdom and integrity. In him, I see shared values. I am open to working with him someday in the future,” Activist Morara Kebaso said.

An X user known as Imoonar emphasised, “Instead of questioning whether Okiya Omtatah is popular enough to run for president, ask yourself what you can do to make him popular enough to clinch the presidency. This should be a personal responsibility for everyone. We have to start somewhere.”

Usirudi nyuma Omwami ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾

I volunteer to be a returning officer in my polling station, tuko rada vibaya sana raondi hii, na tuko ready for goons pic.twitter.com/9Bglw4uxEL

— Rapcha The Sayantist (@IAMRAPCHA) November 24, 2024

“Isn't this the same @OkiyaOmtatah we always looked forward to stepping up in court to challenge any ludicrous policy the govt wanted to shove down people's throats? Why are we now pegging his candidature on 'how well the ground knows him?' Sheer nonsense if you ask me,” Cenas Onjung'a said.

Njambi added, “Hearing that @OkiyaOmtatah will be on the ballot come 2027 is some really really GOOD NEWS!!!! Mchukuwe voters card, tuchange pesa ya campaign, tuingie ground tumtafutie kura na tumsindikize hadi Ikulu!!!”

As the discussions continue, Omtatah’s exploratory committee is expected to begin its work, consulting with the public and formulating strategies ahead of what promises to be a closely watched 2027 presidential race.