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Kenya: Shifting alliances and rising tensions ahead of 2027

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2026-09-14 21:34 UTC → 2026-09-20 22:54 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Political activity in Kenya is intensifying as the 2027 General Election approaches. Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), is attempting to expand his political mobilization beyond the Mt. Kenya region into Nyanza, including Siaya, Migori, Homa Bay, and Kisumu. However, this outreach has met resistance from Nyanza Members of Parliament, led by Caucus Chairman James Nyikal, who argue that Gachagua’s current efforts contradict his previous rhetoric regarding the region’s hostility toward the government. Gachagua’s DCP is also seeing growth through defections from former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee Party. Notable defectors include Nairobi-based MPs Yusuf Hassan, Mark Mwenje, and Amos Mwago, as well as EALA MP Kanini Kega. Internal dynamics within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are facing significant tests. Following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, five members of the Odinga family are seeking various elective positions. Further realignments are emerging as Embakasi East MP Babu Owino announced plans to launch a new political party in the Nyanza region, citing a failure by current ODM leadership to deliver development. Meanwhile, ODM and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) move toward a potential coalition framework. Tensions have escalated in Embu County, where Gachagua alleged a plot to arrest Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji following violent clashes during a UDA meeting in Nembure. Gachagua accused Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire of orchestrating the intimidation, claiming Kindiki sent a message threatening to ‘deal with him’. Additionally, Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro revealed that during the 2022 election cycle, the Kenya Kwanza team had approached James Macharia and James Mwangi to serve as running mates, though both declined. In Nyanza, journalist Trevor Ombija has declared support for President Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid via the ‘TUTAM’ movement, citing improved infrastructure.

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