OPINION: Could Okiya Omtatah tilt the scales of power in 2027?

Kenyans were treated to a thrilling development on Saturday, November 23. 

A gazette notice circulating on social media revealed that Okiya Omtatah, the Senator for Busia, had formed a team to research his viability as a presidential candidate in the upcoming 2027 elections.

Omtatah, widely known for his numerous court victories against the government in petitions that often favoured the public, has long been a figure of interest.

While Kenyans frequently discuss his integrity and his suitability for the presidency in online forums, the 60-year-old senator has remained largely silent on the matter until now.

With the popularity of the Kenya Kwanza administration waning faster than anticipated, Omtatah's move has sparked a wave of excitement, potentially challenging the political establishment that has long viewed the Azimio coalition as its main adversary.

Omtatah's decision to explore a presidential bid follows the chaotic Gen Z protests that shook the capital earlier this year.

The senator’s rising profile as a presidential contender could be seen as a response to the growing wave of youthful discontent.

The youth, often vocal in their demands for change, have repeatedly championed Omtatah, with some even calling on him to run for president. Could he emerge as the leader of this generation—one that once identified as "tribeless" and "leaderless"?

Indeed, Omtatah's intentions are likely to unsettle the ruling party, especially as the narrative for the 2027 elections begins to take shape.

The current administration has faced intense criticism for failing to deliver on campaign promises, inconsistent policy decisions, and poor communication with citizens.

This state of confusion has fuelled a desire for change among many young Kenyans, with Omtatah emerging as a potential figure of hope.

However, Omtatah's presidential bid may face significant hurdles. According to regulations from the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP), a presidential candidate must hold a degree from a recognized university.

The official website of the Kenyan Parliament indicates that Omtatah’s highest academic qualification is a diploma from the Kenya Polytechnic.

While the Constitution under Article 137 does not specify educational requirements for presidential candidates, it remains unclear whether the ORPP will prioritize the constitutional qualifications or enforce their own educational criteria when clearing Omtatah to run.

Last week, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i has also expressed interest in the presidency, drawing mixed reactions from the public.

Those in support view Matiang’i as the best candidate to restore order and discipline to tame the profligate consumerism in Kenya’s ruling class, citing his firm stance during his tenure in office.

Opponents, however, criticise him for his heavy-handed approach, particularly during his time at the Interior Ministry, where his leadership was often marked by intolerance, human rights concerns, and violent clashes with the opposition.

As the political landscape continues to populate, Kenyans find themselves at a crossroads.

The question looms: should they grant President Ruto’s government another term, despite growing concerns about corruption, high taxation, insensitivity, and unjust policies? Or is it time to send the current administration packing?

What is clear is that, for the first time in recent memory, Kenyans appear united in their expectations for the next leader.

Integrity, truth, and honesty are emerging as critical issues that will determine the fate of the current regime.

Concerns about human rights violations and the government’s intolerance toward dissent are also top of mind for many voters as they prepare to make their choice in 2027.

Alenga Torosterdt is a freelance journalist based in Nairobi and a contributor to Citizen.Digital