By Peter Mukabi
With growing support from outspoken and politically assertive Gen-Z voters, a new generation of politicians is emerging as key contenders in the 2027 election race.
This new crop of leaders is already pushing for generational change within their parties by directly challenging veteran political heavyweights or carving out their own political paths ahead of the next General Election.
Their rising national popularity has placed them in positions where they could contest major elective seats, including the presidency.
As Kenya’s political landscape continues to shift, long-established political giants are watching their influence weaken as younger leaders confront them head-on.
ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro are among the most prominent young politicians in the country. Both have been mentioned as possible presidential contenders in 2027.
Others gaining political prominence ahead of the elections include Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Kirinyaga Woman Representative Njeri Maina, Nyali MP Mohammed Ali, and DCP deputy party leader Cleophas Malala.
Sifuna is seen as the face of Linda Mwananchi, a fast-growing faction that broke away from ODM and opposes the coalition government as well as the leadership of Dr. Oburu Oginga.
He has been mentioned as a possible presidential candidate for the group, a move that could reshape ODM’s internal politics and influence the direction of the 2027 race.
The camp, which appears to resonate strongly with young voters, has held a series of public rallies across the country focused on public participation, restoring constitutional governance, and reconnecting political leadership with grassroots realities.
Nyoro, 40, on the other hand, has gained popularity as an articulate and policy-driven legislator.
Although still a member of UDA, he has emerged as one of the strongest critics of the Kenya Kwanza government.
“Leaders such as Sifuna, Nyoro and Babu signal the rise of a politically skilled generation,” said Moi University lecturer Professor Masibo Lumala.
He noted that Sifuna, in particular, stands out not only for his ambition but for his deliberate political strategy as he positions himself for a possible 2027 presidential bid.
“Nyoro’s strength lies in appealing to the ruling class while grounding himself in policy, while Babu Owino commands a strong activist-leaning urban base that helps shape political narratives.”
“Together, they are likely to influence the 2027 agenda and voter mobilisation. However, Sifuna’s presidential prospects uniquely test whether youth-driven and message-based politics can transform visibility and popularity into national electability within Kenya’s political system,” Professor Masibo added.
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