The race for the 2027 General Election is gaining momentum, with politicians across the country regrouping and realigning their interests.

Barely three years into the current administration, the political landscape is abuzz with activity as politicians form new parties and coalitions in preparation for the high-stakes contest. 

From seasoned politicians to rising figures, the groundwork for the next battle for power is already being laid.

On Monday, a new coalition, yet to be officially named, announced its intention to challenge President William Ruto’s re-election bid, vowing to make him a one-term president.

Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa hosted several political leaders as he unveiled his party’s headquarters in Nairobi. During the launch, Wamalwa noted plans to form a coalition aimed at defeating Ruto in the 2027 polls. 

Speaking on Spice FM on Tuesday, the DAP-K leader highlighted the importance of integrity in leadership, urging Kenyans to prioritize character when electing leaders.

“Even as we form this coalition, as the presidential candidate of DAP-K, my record is clear. Kenyans should evaluate a leader’s integrity. If someone has a history of scandals and corruption, don’t expect them to change once they enter State House,” he said.

Defending his own reputation, Wamalwa added, “If you think I am corrupt, do not elect me. If I was stealing with one hand, giving me a position of power would only allow me to steal with both.”

Wamalwa is not the only leader gearing up for 2027. 

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah  launched his presidential bid in November last year, drawing strong support from the youth. The first-term senator and activist is determined to unseat Ruto, whom he accuses of failing the country.

Another contender is former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i. 

Matiang’i has enlisted the services of Dickens & Madson, a Montreal-based lobbying firm, to strategise for his 2027 campaign. Documents filed by the firm with the U.S. Department of Justice under the Foreign Agents Registration Act reveal that Matiang’i hired the firm on July 13, 2024, making an initial payment of $65,000 (Sh8.4 million) of the $250,000 (Sh32.5 million) required for lobbying and international support.

Despite Matiang’i’s current low profile, his candidacy has garnered significant support, including from Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, who believes he has a strong chance of becoming Kenya’s sixth president.

With two years to go until the election, more candidates are expected to declare their bids to challenge Ruto.

Meanwhile, President Ruto has been traversing the country, urging Kenyans to avoid premature campaigns. 

He has also criticised some of his opponents, accusing them of tribalism. “Kenyans know my track record, and I have nothing to worry about,” he said.

However, Wamalwa contends that it is Ruto’s record that voters will reject in 2027.

As the country looks ahead to the elections, the stakes are high. The outcome will not only reshape Kenya’s political landscape but also set the tone for future leadership, with Gen Z voters expected to play a key role.