Former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has sparked political debate after she appeared to leave former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i out of her list of possible opposition presidential candidates.

Speaking about the 2027 race, Orwoba said that the candidate who gets the support of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua could enjoy strong backing. She mentioned Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya as some of the leaders who could benefit from Gachagua’s endorsement.

However, many people were quick to notice that Orwoba did not mention Fred Matiang’i, whose name has been widely discussed as a possible challenger in the 2027 presidential election. Her remarks have since raised fresh questions about the direction the opposition could take as leaders continue to position themselves ahead of the polls.

At the same time, supporters of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino have renewed calls for the youthful politician to seek a bigger national leadership role. His supporters believe he has the energy and popularity to play a key role in Kenya’s future politics.

With more than a year before campaigns gather momentum, political conversations within the opposition are expected to continue, with different leaders and their supporters pushing for their preferred candidates.