Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has stepped up his push for the 2027 presidency, saying his nationwide political engagements have strengthened his belief that Kenyans are increasingly receptive to his bid to challenge President William Ruto.

Speaking on Sunday at the Marikiti Market during the Linda Mwananchi movement’s Nairobi mobilisation tour, Sifuna suggested that pressure from supporters across the country was driving him towards a bigger political role.

The senator told Nairobi residents that his tours had convinced him there was growing demand for him to seek a higher office, while asking locals whether they would support him in taking up the position.

Sifuna also declared that the Ruto administration should serve only one term, arguing that its tenure should come to an end in the 2027 elections. However, he acknowledged that removing the incumbent would require a broad opposition alliance. He called for cooperation among opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other political leaders.

His latest remarks come against the backdrop of months of speculation over his presidential ambitions. In July, Sifuna said he would not reject a presidential bid if Kenyans collectively called on him to contest, while more recent appearances have seen him become increasingly direct about his intentions.

The senator also credited Nairobi voters for helping build his national political profile, saying his election to the Senate had given him a platform to interact with Kenyans across the country.

The Nairobi mobilisation brought together a wide range of opposition figures, including Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, former Law Society of Kenya president Faith Odhiambo, Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, Kaiti MP Joshua Kimilu, political strategist Pauline Njoroge, Wundanyi MP Dan Mwashako, former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza, Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.

Orengo used the rally to criticise President Ruto's political outreach in Kisumu, while Embakasi East MP Babu Owino focused on his own political ambitions in Nairobi, promising to tackle challenges including poor sanitation, water shortages and healthcare if elected governor in 2027.

The Linda Mwananchi team began its Nairobi tour at Marikiti before proceeding through other busy areas, including Gikomba and Burma markets, as well as sections of Jogoo Road and Manyanja. The programme was scheduled to culminate in a major rally at Jacaranda Grounds.

The Nairobi mobilisation comes as Linda Mwananchi seeks to expand its national presence ahead of the 2027 General Election. However, the movement faces an emerging question over who will ultimately carry its presidential ticket, particularly after Siaya Governor James Orengo separately expressed interest in contesting for the presidency.

Sifuna's latest declaration therefore marks another significant step in the evolving opposition contest, with the senator seeking to build a nationwide base while advocating for a united front against Ruto in 2027.