President William Ruto is set to benefit from a major split in the united opposition ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The opposition has promised to front one candidate against Ruto. However, all the principals have officially declared they will be on the ballot, handing Ruto an early advantage.

According to a report by The Standard, the opposition is yet to agree on a flagbearer. Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka said the alliance will unveil its candidate in the first quarter of 2026.

Speaking on December 30, 2025, Kalonzo stated, "By the first quarter of 2026, the name of our presidential candidate will be made known to Kenyans," as quoted by The Standard.

Political analysts say this delay and the growing number of aspirants gives President Ruto an easy path to re-election if the opposition fails to unite.

The united opposition includes Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Fred Matiang'i, Mithika Linturi and Justin Muturi.

However, none is willing to step down, a move that according to The Standard, President Ruto has mocked as fragmented and lacking a coherent agenda.

Here are the eleven leaders who have officially declared their bids, a move that is now working in Ruto's favour.

1. President William Ruto - Incumbent President William Ruto has confirmed he will defend his seat. According to Reuters, Ruto intends to seek re-election in August 2027.

2. David Maraga - Former Chief Justice David Maraga officially declared his bid in 2025. According to http://TUKO.co.ke, Maraga said, "I have made up my mind that I will run in 2027 for the presidency of this country."

3. Kalonzo Musyoka - Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka has declared 2027 as his last chance. According to http://TUKO.co.ke, Kalonzo said, "It is now or never."

4. Fred Matiang'i - Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has been fronted by Jubilee Party as its candidate. According to Daily Nation, Matiang'i is among the top contenders.

5. Martha Karua - According to The Standard, Karua is among the leaders battling for the opposition ticket.

6. Eugene Wamalwa - According to Kenyan Post, Wamalwa has officially declared he will be on the ballot.

7. Okiya Omtatah - According to Reuters and http://Kenyans.co.ke, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah is among those who have announced their bids.

8. Boniface Mwangi - According to Reuters and NTV Kenya, Mwangi announced his bid at Ufungamano House.

9. George Wajackoyah and Onyango Oloo - According to The Star Kenya, both have confirmed their bids.

10. Edwin Sifuna - According to The Star Kenya, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna said he will not say no if Kenyans ask him to run under Linda Mwananchi.

11. Ndindi Nyoro - According to The Star Kenya and People Daily, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro declared his intention to seek the presidency after leaving UDA for PPK.