Moses Kuria Predicts 2027 Presidential Elections After Uhuru's Resurgence

Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has predicted that Kenya’s 2027 presidential election will most likely end in a run-off, a first in the country’s recent political history.

Speaking on Sunday, September 28, during the Government Delivery Services event in Lower Kabete, Kuria said that the growing number of political parties and presidential hopefuls will make it nearly impossible for one candidate to secure the constitutional requirement of over 50 percent of the votes in the first round.

“Kenya’s multiparty democracy has grown steadily over the past three decades. In 2027, we will write a new chapter because the election will not be decided in one round,” Kuria remarked in a statement shared online.

His remarks come against the backdrop of rising political activity ahead of the next polls. According to Kuria, the competition will be far stiffer than in 2022, when President William Ruto narrowly avoided a run-off after securing 50.49 percent against Raila Odinga’s 48.85 percent.

Had Ruto’s tally dipped below 50 percent, Kenyans would have been forced to return to the ballot for the first-ever presidential run-off.

Kuria, who previously served as a senior economic advisor to President Ruto, has often argued that Kenya’s electoral processes face multiple legal and logistical hurdles.

Earlier in the year, he warned that delays in appointing IEBC commissioners could throw the electoral calendar into disarray, predicting extended court battles that might run into late 2027.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), however, has since been reconstituted, with new commissioners sworn in.

By-elections are also scheduled for November 27, 2025, a sign that the commission is now back on its feet.

Even so, Kuria’s warning reflects the fragmented political landscape. Besides President Ruto, who is expected to defend his seat, several other figures have already hinted at joining the race.

The United Opposition has floated names such as Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, and former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i. Former Chief Justice David Maraga and Mumias East MP Peter Salasya have also signaled interest.

ODM leader Raila Odinga, on the other hand, has yet to make his position clear, leaving speculation about whether he will run again or back a coalition partner.