Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua criticized President William Ruto’s administration in a New Year message to Kenyans. Gachagua cited economic hardship, punitive taxes, insecurity, and corruption, saying 2025 caused widespread pain. The Democracy for Citizens Party leader urged hope for change, accusing the government of poor fiscal policies and abuses of power while calling on citizens to remain resilient in the year ahead.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Masika Wetangula warned coffee cartels in Bungoma County, accusing brokers and corrupt cooperative officials of exploiting farmers and cutting their earnings. Speaking at a family burial in Kabuchai, Wetangula said cartels had discouraged coffee farming despite the county’s strong production potential. He called for reforms to restore farmer confidence, expand coffee production, boost household incomes, and encourage youth voter registration ahead of the next election.

Oburu Oginga declared he will be the Orange Democratic Movement’s presidential candidate in the 2027 general election if the party chooses to contest independently. Addressing supporters, the ODM leader said 2026 will determine whether the party runs alone or joins a coalition. He added that the party constitution designates the leader as flagbearer and urged members to maintain unity ahead of the polls.

Edwin Sifuna joined former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua and other Democracy for the Citizens Party leaders at a funeral in Murang’a County, marking his first public appearance alongside the DCP camp. The Nairobi senator attended the burial of Embakasi North MP James Gakuya’s mother, amid speculation over opposition realignments. Sifuna has opposed any ODM partnership backing President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid.

Kenyan political leaders urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to prepare early for the 2027 general election. National Liberal Party leader Augustus Muli highlighted concerns from recent by-elections and past polls, stressing the need for transparency and timely decisions. Sworn in mid-2025 under Chief Justice Martha Koome, the commission’s leadership must restore public confidence as voter expectations rise and political competition intensifies.

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i announced plans to intensify nationwide political campaigns throughout 2026 ahead of the 2027 general election. In a New Year message, the Jubilee Party deputy leader described 2026 as decisive, citing high living costs, insecurity, strained public services, and graft. Matiang’i said the opposition will mobilize voters nationwide and urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission to expand mass voter registration, particularly targeting young people.