Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru has questioned Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s ability to mount a successful presidential campaign, arguing that he lacks the political machinery needed to challenge President William Ruto.
Speaking on Sunday, October 18, Waiguru suggested that Sifuna needed more time to build a strong political support base before seeking the country’s top seat.
She cited his inability to persuade some of his closest political allies to abandon their parties and support his political ambitions as an indication of his limited influence.
Governor Ann Waiguru and Senator Edwin Sifuna. Photo: Courtesy.
Waiguru argued that a successful presidential candidate must demonstrate the ability to rally elected leaders, mobilise resources and build a nationwide political network.
She contrasted Sifuna’s position with Ruto’s 2022 presidential campaign, noting that the President had secured the backing of more than 100 Members of Parliament while serving as Deputy President.
The governor also expressed doubt about the possibility of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka becoming Sifuna’s running mate.
She cautioned against assuming that voters in the Mount Kenya region would automatically support the Nairobi senator, pointing to the political challenges facing Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in the region.
Waiguru acknowledged that Sifuna could attract support from some young urban voters, including members of Generation Z, but maintained that such backing would not necessarily translate into widespread electoral support.
She further questioned whether Sifuna’s popularity on social media platforms could translate into votes, arguing that online mobilisation and actual voter turnout were different things.
The governor maintained that Ruto remained a stronger contender in the Mount Kenya region, insisting that Sifuna would struggle to defeat the incumbent in the 2027 General Election.
