Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata has described Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as the opposition’s most influential political asset, arguing that his growing appeal could help opposition leaders build a stronger challenge to President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.

Kang’ata said Sifuna’s political influence had expanded beyond his traditional support base, positioning him as an increasingly important figure in the opposition’s efforts to attract voters from different parts of the country.

Speaking during a television interview on Wednesday, November 4, the governor suggested that Sifuna could attract even greater support if President Ruto replaced Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka as his running mate in the next election.

“The greatest engine of opposition is Sifuna. The way he has been framed by circumstances has made him appealing beyond his region,” Kang’ata said.

He added that such a political arrangement could create an opportunity for Sifuna to attract voters who might feel politically displaced by changes in the governing coalition.

Kang’ata backs Gachagua-Kalonzo-Sifuna alliance

The governor also outlined what he believes could become a winning opposition alliance, bringing together former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo and Sifuna.

He argued that the three leaders could combine political support from Mount Kenya, Lower Eastern, Western Kenya and areas that previously supported the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“When you have Kalonzo, Gachagua, and Sifuna, that’s all. The three of them, once they come together, it’s a done deal,” he said.

Kang’ata particularly singled out Gachagua, the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), describing him as a central figure in efforts to bring different opposition factions together.

“Riggy G is definitely the glue that holds the opposition together. If you want to become president, it definitely makes sense for you to look for Gachagua,” he said.

His remarks come amid growing consultations among opposition leaders over a possible joint presidential candidate for 2027.

Sifuna's Linda Mwananchi Movement recently unveiled its political headquarters in Nairobi, bringing together Gachagua, Kalonzo and other opposition figures.

However, the gathering also exposed differences over who should eventually lead the opposition ticket, with some supporters openly backing Sifuna while Kalonzo called for patience as consultations continue.

Gachagua has separately indicated that he would support either Sifuna or Kalonzo if opposition leaders settle on one of them as their presidential candidate.

Kang’ata addresses Gachagua criticism

The Murang’a governor also defended Gachagua against accusations that the former Deputy President was politically intimidating.

He recalled an incident in Ol Kalou where Gachagua had reportedly warned him against attending an event that later turned violent.

Kang’ata said he ignored the warning and was subsequently beaten and injured, adding that the former Deputy President had been right to caution him.

Governor rules out Deputy President ambitions

On his own political future, Kang’ata dismissed suggestions that he was interested in pursuing a national leadership position, including the Deputy President's office.

He maintained that his immediate priority was serving the people of Murang’a rather than pursuing political appointments.

“I do not want to become a DP for several reasons. I believe the issue is not about positions; it is about the platform — what do you want to do for the country?” he said.

He expressed interest in sharing his ideas on manufacturing, healthcare and education with opposition leaders, arguing that excessive taxation and regulation were placing pressure on businesses and industries.

Kang’ata also confirmed that he would seek another term as Murang’a governor in 2027.

He said his campaign would focus on addressing poverty and improving residents' livelihoods rather than engaging in personal attacks against potential challengers, including former Water Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome and Woman Representative Betty Maina.

The governor further described former President Uhuru Kenyatta's involvement in the opposition as one of moral support, dismissing claims that the movement depended on his financial backing.

He said he was prepared to return to private life if he lost the 2027 election, placing his family ahead of further political ambitions.

“If I lose in 2027, I’ll go home. I am a family man; I have five children to care for,” he said.