Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula has advised Edwin Sifuna, the Linda Mwananchi chief, to shelve his presidential ambitions until 2032. Savula believes Sifuna stands little chance of beating President William Ruto in the 2027 election. As the deputy coordinator of Ruto's re-election campaign in Western Kenya, Savula urged Sifuna to evaluate his chances before entering the race. He suggested that Sifuna should instead wait for Ruto to complete his second and final term in office.
Savula made these remarks during the funeral of Juliana Kasilly in Kabuchai constituency, Bungoma county. Juliana was the mother-in-law of Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa. The funeral was attended by several notable figures, including Industrialisation PS Juma Mukwana and former MPs Bifwoli Wakoli and John Munyasia. Kakamega County Assembly Speaker James Namatsi and Kakamega County Secretary Lawrence Omuhaka were also present. Savula expressed his concerns about Sifuna's allies using him for personal political gains.
Savula emphasized that President Ruto has brought the presidency closer to the people of Western Kenya. He urged the community to support Ruto in 2027 and consider fronting one of their own in 2032. According to Savula, Sifuna would stand a better chance of winning the presidency in 2032. He cited the example of the Luhya community's past experiences with presidential succession, suggesting that they must be clever and position themselves strategically for President Ruto's succession.
However, the Sifuna team, led by Kapuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga, remains optimistic about Sifuna's chances in 2027. Majimbo described Sifuna as the new kid on the block, poised to take over the presidency. He stated that the time for a president from Western Kenya through Sifuna or never has come. The lawmaker emphasized that the Luhya community is marketing their son Sifuna for the presidency.
Savula also urged the Luhya community to act and work smart by avoiding being used by other communities to help them return to power. He referenced past experiences, such as in 1992 when the Luhyas demanded that President Moi step down, but ultimately lost the seat to the Mt Kenya region. Savula advised the community to position themselves strategically for President Ruto's succession.
The Sifuna team's response indicates a clear difference in opinion regarding Sifuna's presidential ambitions. While Savula sees Sifuna's chances as low, the Sifuna team is confident about his prospects. This disagreement highlights the complexities of Kenyan politics, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 election.
As the election approaches, key players like Sifuna, Ruto, and Savula will likely continue to shape the country's political landscape. With 322 days, 23 hours, and 1 minute to go until the 2027 election, the dynamics of Kenyan politics will likely continue to shift. Ultimately, the decision of who will run and when will have significant implications for the country's future.
Key points
- Deputy Governor Ayub Savula advises Edwin Sifuna to wait until 2032 to run for president.
- Savula believes Sifuna stands little chance of beating President Ruto in 2027.
- The Sifuna team remains optimistic about his chances in 2027, citing the Luhya community's desire for a president from their region.
