Political realignments have emerged well before the 2027 general election, raising significant concerns about premature election campaigns, as calls for the government to provide sufficient resources and autonomy to constitutional bodies intensify.

Of great concern is the fervour generated by political rallies, which are being created by political realignments, resulting in an artificial euphoria that obscures substantive policy debates and elevates political temperatures.

This is creating fear that the government might shift focus to the spectacle of election campaigns diverting its attention from critical national development issues.

“This premature election fervour undermines the very spirit of the democratic process, as the government is expected to concentrate on governance and implementation of its policies until the officially designed campaigning period is announced,” the Catholic Bishops said through their umbrella body, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB).

Even though the government has been commended for establishing an Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel, calls for the immediate updating of the voter register, the prompt conduct of by-elections for vacant seats, and continuous efforts to register new voters, especially among the dynamic youth, to ensure that every eligible citizen has a voice have intensified.

“We urge the government to provide sufficient resources and autonomy to constitutional bodies such as the IEBC and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR). These reforms are essential for nurturing a democracy that is participatory, just, and truly reflective of the people’s will,” the Catholic Bishops added.

Already, unprecedented political realignments have hit the country as former foes regroup to craft strategies ahead of the 2027 polls.

In recent weeks, once-sworn political archrivals have publicly buried the hatchet and called a truce. The high-octane politics is building up from the formation of a broad-based government, new political parties, rebranding of political parties, and political realignments as key political figures draw their 2027 game plan.  

The President

President William Ruto has been making multiple development visits across the country. The President has already toured Western, North Eastern, and Coastal regions. The timing of these tours is seen as a move to solidify his support ahead of the 2027 polls.

Political analysts argue that his visits to the Coastal region and parts of Western Kenya could be aimed at building bridges with supporters of Raila Odinga.

These tours are also said to be an opportunity for President Ruto to reinforce his image as a leader who is actively working for the welfare of all Kenyans despite the unpopularity of some of the government’s initiatives. This can be translated as a strategy to garner political goodwill and possibly secure his re-election in 2027.

Additionally, analysts say President Ruto’s emphasis on development initiatives in the regions he has toured could also be seen as a way to weaken the influence of opposition leaders.  

Opposition leaders

On the other hand, opposition leaders led by Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have been attending public functions, and using them as platforms to criticise the government and prepare for the 2027 polls.

Opposition leaders’ criticism of the government and their strategic appearances at key public events are preparatory moves to unseat President Ruto in 2027. The general election will likely see a coalition of opposition parties. Their public engagements and critiques are part of demonstrating their readiness to lead the opposition bloc and challenge President Ruto.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has not been left out. He launched what he called consultative meetings at his Wamunyoro residence in Mathira Constituency, Nyeri County. Additionally, gearing up to the polls, the People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua has also been actively involved in various political activities.

The government is under pressure from various quarters to comprehensively reform the country’s economic policies to ensure that every Kenyan benefits from national progress. Additionally, there are demands for complete transparency in the allocation and utilisation of tax revenues, with the push for funds being exclusively dedicated to providing essential services that uplift the common good.