Line Up In Place As Opposition Unveil 4 Possible Presidential Candidates

Kenya’s opposition has begun closed-door negotiations on a power-sharing deal, laying the groundwork for a united front aimed at defeating President William Ruto in the 2027 general election.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has emerged as a key opposition figure since his ouster last year, confirmed that talks are underway and revealed that five draft frameworks outlining the distribution of top government positions are already being debated.

Speaking during a month-long visit to the United States, Gachagua said the coalition’s priority is to agree on a governance formula that addresses corruption, extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances.

“We will agree on who takes which office, provided we build a leadership framework that restores accountability,” Gachagua told reporters after meeting ex-Interior Minister Fred Matiang’i in Washington on Saturday.

Other senior figures in the talks include Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, veteran reformist Martha Karua of the PLP, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, and former National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi.

According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the opposition’s technical committee has drafted five potential line-ups, centered around the positions of President, Deputy President, Prime Minister, and the Speakers of both houses of Parliament.

While Kenya’s current constitution does not provide for a Prime Minister, the coalition is considering pushing for constitutional amendments after the 2027 polls to create the post—a move reminiscent of the 2008 power-sharing deal following post-election violence.

The drafts suggest several scenarios: Kalonzo Musyoka as presidential candidate, with either Eugene Wamalwa, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, or Fred Matiang’i as running mate. Gachagua would be Prime Minister.

Fred Matiang’i as flagbearer, paired with Musyoka, Muturi, or Karua, while Gachagua remains Prime Minister.

Rigathi Gachagua leading the ticket if he wins a court battle challenging his 2024 removal from office, with Wamalwa or Matiang’i as running mate and Musyoka as Prime Minister.

Martha Karua as presidential nominee, backed by Matiang’i, Wamalwa, or Natembeya, and Musyoka as Prime Minister.

Eugene Wamalwa as the candidate, with Musyoka, Karua, or Muturi as deputy, and either Gachagua or Matiang’i as Prime Minister.

A final decision will be made by the coalition’s principals, who are expected to sign a formal agreement later this year.