Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has ruled out Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as a viable opposition presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election, escalating early political contestation and sharpening divisions within opposition ranks.
Kaluma dismissed not only Sifuna but also former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Siaya Governor James Orengo as potential flagbearers, arguing that none commands the political weight to mount a serious challenge.
“Sifuna will never be the opposition presidential candidate in 2027. Neither will Matiang’i and Orengo,” Kaluma stated.
The ODM legislator further claimed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has already settled on Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as a preferred presidential candidate, alleging the decision is strategic.
“Gachagua has settled on Kalonzo as presidential candidate because he is old, dependent, spineless, penniless, has a weak numerical base and is therefore easy to manipulate,” Kaluma said.
Kaluma contrasted Kalonzo with Matiang’i, whom he described as lacking both political numbers and financial muscle but less susceptible to external control.
“Matiang’i lacks both votes and money, but is young, stubborn and not as easily manipulable as Kalonzo,” he added.
On Siaya Governor James Orengo, Kaluma argued that the veteran politician holds little influence in the Mt Kenya political calculus, suggesting his candidacy would not significantly shift voting patterns.
“Orengo is nowhere in the Mt Kenya power equation,” he claimed.
The MP also weighed in on Nairobi’s 2027 gubernatorial race, asserting that Embakasi North MP James Gakuya is the preferred candidate under what he termed a broader political arrangement.
“Absent a presidential candidate, Kikuyus prioritize Nairobi Governor above Deputy President and any other position,” Kaluma stated, adding that Babu Owino is not in contention for the seat.
Kaluma accused unnamed political actors of orchestrating a strategy to divide Western Kenya’s vote, warning that such fragmentation could shape the national outcome.
“Sifuna, Orengo, Babu are… used in a scheme to divide the western side of Kenya,” he alleged.
He argued that a united bloc comprising Western, Nyanza, Rift Valley, Coast and North Eastern regions could decisively influence the election, citing their combined numerical strength.
Despite the criticism directed at multiple opposition figures, Kaluma expressed confidence in President William Ruto’s re-election prospects.
“President Ruto will win election in 2027 with over 75% of the total votes cast,” he said.