- A new TIFA poll shows 59% of respondents support Kithure Kindiki remaining William Ruto’s running mate in 2027.
- The findings have triggered fresh political debate within Kenya Kwanza and ODM circles.
- Gladys Wanga emerged second in the survey with 12% support.
- Hassan Joho, Oburu Oginga, Musalia Mudavadi and Moses Wetang’ula also appeared in the poll.
- Analysts say the deputy president debate could heavily influence coalition politics ahead of 2027.
Fresh political discussions have emerged across the country after a new TIFA Research survey revealed that a majority of Kenyans prefer Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to remain President William Ruto’s running mate in the 2027 General Election.
According to the poll, Kindiki received 59 percent support from respondents, placing him far ahead of other political figures whose names have recently been linked to the deputy president position.
The survey has intensified succession and coalition conversations within both the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and opposition-linked political camps as leaders begin positioning themselves ahead of the next election cycle.
Among the leaders mentioned in the findings was Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who attracted 12 percent support. Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and veteran politician Oburu Oginga each received three percent support.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi polled two percent, while National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula received one percent.
Political analysts now believe the debate surrounding the deputy president slot could become one of the defining issues ahead of the 2027 presidential race.
The position is increasingly being viewed as a strategic tool for coalition building, regional balance and voter mobilisation as parties attempt to strengthen their national appeal.
Within ODM, some leaders have publicly argued that the party deserves the deputy president slot should future cooperation talks with President Ruto’s camp succeed.
Oburu Oginga recently stated that ODM would negotiate from a position of strength, signalling the party’s intention to secure a senior government position in any possible political arrangement.
At the same time, leaders allied to President Ruto have continued defending Kindiki’s position, warning that changing the current arrangement could weaken support within the Mt Kenya region.
Human Capital Development and Special Programs Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku recently insisted that the deputy president position belongs to Kindiki and should not be subjected to political negotiations.
Kindiki assumed office in October 2024 following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Since then, his allies have maintained that he remains the natural choice to deputise President Ruto in the next election.
The latest TIFA findings are now expected to fuel further political debate as preparations for the 2027 General Election continue to gather momentum across the country.
