Trans Nzoia County Governor George Natembeya has sparked widespread discussion by hinting that he may run for president in the upcoming 2027 General Election. Speaking during a funeral service in his home county, Natembeya, a first-term governor, suggested that political circumstances are aligning in his favor, positioning him as a serious challenger to President William Ruto.
“Right now, I am very famous. You walk across the country, and everybody knows who Natembeya is,” he stated confidently, reflecting on his growing national prominence.
Read: Has William Ruto Shortchanged Mt. Kenya Region
Governor Natembeya, known for his Tawe Movement and his vocal criticism of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, also expressed that his influence is expanding beyond Trans Nzoia. His critique of Mudavadi and Wetang’ula focuses on their perceived inaction in addressing the needs of their communities, which he argues have left them underrepresented in national discourse.
“I am looking at 2027, and if everything goes according to plan, I will run for the presidency. There is nothing special about those who want to be president that I don’t have,” Natembeya asserted, signaling his intent to challenge established political figures for the top seat.
A Growing List of 2027 Presidential Candidates
Governor Natembeya is not alone in his ambition to unseat President Ruto. The 2027 presidential race is shaping up to be fiercely contested, with a growing number of influential politicians signaling their intent to run for office. Here’s a look at some of the key figures eyeing the presidency:
Kalonzo Musyoka – Wiper Party Leader
Kalonzo Musyoka, the leader of the Wiper Party and a former Vice President of Kenya, remains a prominent contender. Musyoka has long harbored presidential ambitions and continues to build his support base, especially in the eastern region. His role as a key figure in the opposition coalition further strengthens his case as a viable presidential candidate.
Read: Kalonzo: I am aware of the Azimio deal that I signed
Rigathi Gachagua – Former Deputy President
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also made clear his intention to run for president. Gachagua, who previously served as President Ruto’s deputy, has declared that the current administration may only serve one term.
While Gachagua was impeached during his tenure as Deputy President, his legal battles are ongoing, and a favorable ruling could pave the way for his return to elective politics.
His political base remains strong, particularly in his home region of Mt. Kenya, where he is actively engaging with delegates and supporters to solidify his standing for 2027.
Read: Gachagua Criticizes President Ruto, Calls Him a One-Term President
Fred Matiang’i – Former Interior Cabinet Secretary
Fred Matiang’i, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary under President Uhuru Kenyatta, is another potential candidate. Known for his firm leadership and significant role in the administration, Matiang’i is seen by many as a strong contender with the leadership qualities needed for the presidency. His endorsement by key political figures has further bolstered his profile as a presidential hopeful.
The 2027 Race Heats Up: What to Expect
As the 2027 elections approach, the political landscape in Kenya is becoming increasingly dynamic, with a host of leaders positioning themselves as credible challengers to President Ruto. Natembeya’s growing influence and his bold statement about his candidacy suggest that he may become a key player in the upcoming race. However, the political environment remains fluid, and alliances, coalitions, and public opinion will play a crucial role in shaping the final lineup of candidates.
As Kenya gears up for another competitive election, the question on many minds is: who will emerge as the most formidable challenger to President William Ruto? With high-profile leaders like Natembeya, Kalonzo Musyoka, Rigathi Gachagua, and Fred Matiang’i all indicating their intentions to run, the 2027 General Election is shaping up to be one of the most significant in the country’s history.
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