Why We Won’t Explain Our 2027 Plans - Senator Edwin Sifuna

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has dismissed calls for the opposition to clarify its political strategy for the 2027 General Election.

Speaking on Sunday, August 31, Sifuna argued that slogans had proven powerful in past campaigns, drawing parallels with President William Ruto's 2022 campaign, which revolved around the 'Hustler' narrative.

"We want to tell Ruto that we won’t explain our 2027 plans. Just the same way you came, saying Hustler, we will come chanting Wantam. 

"Stop telling us to explain one term; even a small child knows what one term means. The same way you came in with a slogan, we will remove you with a slogan," he said.

This comes over a month after Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has dismissed calls by the opposition for Ruto to step down from office.

Speaking on Monday, July 21, Wanga argued that Ruto can only be removed from office through an election, and further reaffirmed ODM's support for the president

"The opposition must have an agenda; the agenda cannot be 'Ruto Must Go'. Ruto cannot go without an election because we are in a democratic country. We will defend him because he can only go through an election,” she stated.

Wanga said the opposition should instead engage the electorate with practical and people-centered policies.

"Don't tell us that 'Ruto Must Go', he can't go anywhere and he can't be on the agenda. You should be telling Kenyans the things that you will do if elected,” she added.

At the same time, Ruto came out strongly against growing calls for his resignation, questioning the motives behind the 'Ruto Must Go' slogan.

Speaking on Friday, June 27, Ruto urged his critics to present a clear and constructive alternative, dismissing calls for his removal.

"If it is Ruto must go, then tell me how you want me to go. What do you mean by Ruto must go? Look for a better plan and convince the people of Kenya," he said.

Ruto argued that opposing his leadership must be rooted in ideas, not simply rejection, adding that those calling for his exit were not offering any meaningful solutions.

"You cannot replace a plan you don’t like with no plan. The only thing you are armed with is hate and violence and you want us to agree with you? There are very few fools in Kenya,” he added.