Kenya's pre-election political landscape is seeing significant shifts, with the opposition navigating internal challenges and the government facing scrutiny over its influence on justice advocates. The upcoming 2027 general election is intensifying strategic alliances and raising questions about the independence of key institutions.

• Fred Matiang'i, a former Cabinet Secretary, is emerging as a central figure in Kisii political leadership.
• The appointment of Dr. Mukisa Kituyi as spokesperson for the United Opposition has rattled the ruling Kenya Kwanza party.
• The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President, Faith Odhiambo, has sparked controversy by joining a panel on compensation for victims of protests, leading to debate over the organization's independence.
• Critics argue the compensation panel, led by Makau Mutua, lacks a public-interest mandate.

A recent Trends and Insights for Africa (TIFA) survey revealed that nearly one in five Kenyans blame President William Ruto for recent human rights abuses, though political alignment significantly influences this perception.

• 35 percent of Kenyans believe the police and other state security agencies are the primary perpetrators of extrajudicial killings and abductions.
• The survey was conducted between August 23 and September 3, 2025, involving 2,023 randomly selected Kenyans across all 47 counties.
• 73 percent of respondents feel the government is not acting strongly enough to stop extrajudicial killings and abductions, with only 19 percent believing otherwise.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has announced that its party primaries for upcoming by-elections will take place between September 24 and September 27, 2025. This decision follows a call for applications for 13 constituencies and wards, with the aim of selecting candidates for by-elections scheduled for November 27.

• ODM's National Elections Coordinating Committee (NECC) chairperson Emily Awita confirmed the dates on Friday, September 12.
• Magarini Constituency and Fafi Ward candidates, including MP Harrison Kombe, received direct tickets.
• Vacancies arose in areas like Ugunja after incumbent Opiyo Wandayi's appointment as Cabinet Secretary and in Kasipul following the death of incumbent Charles Ong’ondo Were.