Kenyan politician Edwin Sifuna has announced that he will challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 presidential elections under The Equitable Party (TEP). Sifuna, who is also the Nairobi Senator and Linda Mwananchi Movement presidential candidate, unveiled TEP as his party of choice in an event attended by several high-profile politicians. The event, which took place in Nairobi, was graced by a host of Linda Mwananchi Movement principals who are backing Sifuna's bid.
TEP was officially handed to Sifuna by its leader, Gilbert Marava, who confirmed that Sifuna will be the new party leader and its candidate in the 2027 presidential elections. Marava explained that the party will undergo restructuring, with existing members being retained and new ones brought on board. Sifuna's entry into the party has propelled it to prominence, having been registered in 2022 but remained relatively inactive until now.
The event was attended by several notable politicians, including Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale. Others in attendance included Vihiga County Governor Godfrey Osotsi, Kisii County Governor Richard Onyonka, and Nairobi City County Governor Kawira Mwangaza. The gathering demonstrated the level of support Sifuna has garnered as he prepares for his presidential bid.
Sifuna's decision to join TEP comes after being kicked out as the Orange Democratic Movement's Secretary General. He had also faced challenges in registering a new political outfit for his bid but remained determined. With TEP, Sifuna is now poised to challenge President Ruto in the 2027 elections. The party's offices are located along Mtito Andei Road, off Lenana Road in Nairobi.
As the leader of TEP, Sifuna will also lead discussions with other political outfits to craft a formidable alliance or coalition in its quest to capture power at the ballot. Marava expressed confidence in Sifuna's ability to lead the party to victory, citing his experience and leadership skills. The party's restructuring process is expected to be completed soon, with Sifuna at the helm.
Sifuna's 2027 presidential bid is seen as a significant development in Kenyan politics, with several politicians and parties already jockeying for position. President Ruto, who took office in 2022, will be seeking re-election in 2027. Sifuna's challenge is expected to add to the growing list of contenders vying for the top seat. The Linda Mwananchi Movement has been backing Sifuna's bid, and its principals were in attendance at the event.
The unveiling of TEP as Sifuna's party of choice marks a significant milestone in his presidential bid. With a clear path forward, Sifuna is now set to take on President Ruto and other contenders in the 2027 elections. The coming months are expected to see increased political activity as parties and politicians position themselves for the polls.
Key points
- Edwin Sifuna has unveiled The Equitable Party as his party of choice for the 2027 presidential elections.
- Sifuna will challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 elections under The Equitable Party.
- The Equitable Party was registered in 2022 and has undergone restructuring with Sifuna as its new leader.