Speaking during a televised interview, Sifuna said the growing momentum behind the opposition is not driven by personalities but by a desire to restore constitutional governance, protect democratic freedoms and improve the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
The remarks come against the backdrop of the growing influence of the Linda Mwananchi movement, whose rallies have drawn large crowds in different parts of the country. In recent weeks, some supporters have openly urged Sifuna to consider running for the presidency in 2027, citing his outspoken criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration. The Nairobi Senator, however, dismissed speculation over his political ambitions, insisting that the opposition's immediate priority is building a united coalition capable of defeating President Ruto.
Governance over infrastructure
Sifuna said governments should not be judged solely on the infrastructure they build, arguing that respect for constitutional values and democratic governance is more important.
"When we were kicking out Moi, why were we saying he must go? It is not because he did not build stadiums. Moi built Kasarani and Nyayo Stadium, and after that no one has ever built. Talanta Stadium is going to be the next one," he said.
"There is a life we used to live that was unacceptable to us, and as measured against the six values highlighted in the preamble of the Constitution—human rights, democracy, the rule of law, social justice, equity and equality—our lives have to be lived within a context of democratic ideals."
Corruption hurting investment
The senator described corruption as one of Kenya's biggest economic challenges, saying it discourages investment and limits job creation.
"Corruption is such a major obstacle to job creation that investors often complain that, before they even break ground on a project, leaders are already hustling them for a direct bribe or a share in the business, and are told they won't be able to do business if they don't accede to that request," Sifuna said.
He argued that eliminating corruption would create a more attractive business environment and unlock employment opportunities for young people.
Opposition promises lower taxes
Sifuna said many Kenyans are demanding a government that spends less and taxes less, adding that the opposition intends to offer voters a clear alternative ahead of the next election.
"Kenyans are increasingly saying, 'Sifuna, we are on the same page that Ruto needs to go and these are the reasons why we are saying he must go.' We need to have a team in power that will cut government spending so that we are able to deal with taxation," he said.
"I want people to move away from this fascination with who is going to be number one or two. We want to be able to tell you that this is the country you will wake up to on August 11, 2027."
Questions over SHA and Affordable Housing
Sifuna also questioned some of the government's flagship programmes, saying President Ruto would eventually acknowledge shortcomings in the same way he admitted problems with the university funding model.
"President Ruto argues with us whenever we point out that things are not working. When it comes to crunch time, just as he has admitted that the university funding model is not working, he will also come to admit that SHA and this Housing thing are not working," he said.
Opposition unity
According to Sifuna, public dissatisfaction with the government presents the opposition with a realistic opportunity to win power if it remains united.
"When you have an incumbent who is running below 30 per cent in terms of his approval and the support that he has, it tells you that he is in a lot of trouble. If you put together all the support of the opposition, you see that it is possible, if the opposition were to present a united front, to have a new government in place in 12 months."
"We in Linda Mwananchi are focused on making sure that we present a formidable candidate against Ruto."
Sifuna dismisses presidential speculation
Responding to growing calls from sections of the public for him to seek the presidency, Sifuna said he would not make such an announcement casually.
"If I was going to run for President, do you really think I would announce it at night on a show like this? That is something that you do in broad daylight and say, 'Now I'm ready,'" he said.
His remarks come as political activity continues to intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election, with both the Kenya Kwanza administration and opposition leaders stepping up campaigns to win public support. While Sifuna argues that corruption, high taxes and governance failures have left many Kenyans frustrated, the government has consistently defended its economic agenda, maintaining that programmes such as the Affordable Housing initiative and the Social Health Authority (SHA) are long-term reforms aimed at expanding access to housing, healthcare and economic opportunities.
As political realignments gather pace, the debate over the country's economic direction, governance and leadership is expected to dominate Kenya's political landscape in the months leading to the 2027 elections.
Do you want to be published? Email info@thedailywhistle.co.ke or WhatsApp 0721930260
Comments
No approved comments yet.