Political Leaders and Parties Maneuver for 2027 Elections and Party Control - September 2025

Tensions are escalating within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) as leaders clash over the selection of their 2027 presidential candidate. In Kakamega County, a power struggle over the ODM chairmanship has erupted between Governor Fernandes Barasa and Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya. Meanwhile, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has endorsed Ali Korane for the 2027 Garissa gubernatorial race, locking out other rivals. Allies of President Ruto in Mt. Kenya have begun campaigning for 2027 by highlighting health reforms and development gains. Separately, Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku faulted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for not fielding a candidate in the Mbeere North by-election. Gachagua has also reportedly rebuked and labeled President Ruto's meetings at State House as "corruption oriented."