Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has dismissed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as a major challenger in the 2027 presidential race, saying the former ODM Secretary-General has not reached the level required to pose a serious threat to President William Ruto.

Speaking during an interview on July 27, 2026, Ruku said Sifuna’s growing popularity is notable but maintained that it does not place him among the country’s leading presidential contenders.

“Sifuna has not reached the threshold of being a potential threat to any serious political players like Ruto in Kenya. He is not a threat at all; he is coming up better than Kalonzo and Matiang’i, which is something impressive. I do not anticipate that he will be able to go beyond 15%, which is fairly good,” Ruku said.

He added that President Ruto has not yet launched his re-election campaign and remains focused on implementing government programmes.

Ruku says nationwide campaigns require strong structures

The cabinet secretary said building a successful presidential campaign requires extensive national networks and sustained grassroots mobilisation.

According to Ruku, political success is determined not only by support in major towns but also by the ability to mobilise voters across constituencies and rural areas.

He said while Sifuna has gained visibility and is attracting attention nationally, the political landscape will change once President Ruto formally begins his campaign as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) presidential candidate.

Ruku maintained that the president’s campaign machinery has not yet been activated and argued that voter preferences could shift once campaigns officially gather momentum.

Sifuna gains backing in Western Kenya

Ruku’s remarks come as Sifuna continues to attract endorsements from political leaders in Western Kenya.

Former Cabinet minister Mukhisa Kituyi recently hosted the Nairobi senator at his Mbakalo home, where Luhya elders offered their blessings and pledged to hold more engagements with the ODM leader.

Former Westlands MP Fred Gumo has also backed Sifuna, describing him as a leader capable of uniting the region.

Former Kenyatta International Convention Centre Chief Executive Officer Philip Kisia has expressed confidence in Sifuna’s national prospects, while former minister Musikari Kombo blessed the senator during his Bungoma homecoming.

Former Cabinet minister Noah Wekesa, former Vihiga Governor Moses Akaranga and former MP Bifwoli Wakoli have also expressed support for Sifuna, urging Western Kenya leaders to rally behind a single candidate.

Focus turns to the 2027 race

The endorsements have added momentum to Sifuna’s growing political profile as attention shifts towards the 2027 General Election.

His supporters say backing from senior political leaders complements the support he has built among younger voters and could strengthen his national appeal.

Ruku, however, maintained that the race remains firmly in President Ruto’s hands, saying the real contest will begin once the Head of State officially launches his re-election campaign.

He reiterated that, despite Sifuna’s growing profile, he does not expect the Nairobi senator’s support to rise beyond 15 per cent in the presidential race.