Nyaribari Chache Member of Parliament (MP) Zaheer Jhanda has sparked fresh debate on the 2027 General Election after publicly urging several opposition figures to reconsider their presidential ambitions and instead focus on gubernatorial races.

In a strongly worded Facebook post reacting to the latest Infotrak opinion polls, Jhanda argued that the numbers currently favour President William Ruto, who continues to consolidate his position as the frontrunner for the 2027 presidential contest.

“The message is loud and clear: politics is numbers, not noise,” Jhanda said, noting that as President Ruto tightens his grip nationally, some presidential bids are increasingly appearing “more like wishful thinking than realistic pathways to power.”

Message to Kalonzo, Karua, Matiang’i and Natembeya

Jhanda specifically named Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, Narc-Kenya leader Martha Karua and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, urging them to pause and reassess their political strategies.

According to Jhanda, the four leaders would be better placed seeking governorships in their home counties, where they enjoy stronger name recognition, established support bases and clearer numerical advantage.

Also Read: Ruto Vows to Talk to Kalonzo and Other Leaders

He pointed to Kitui for Kalonzo Musyoka, Nyamira for Fred Matiang’i, Kirinyaga for Martha Karua and Trans Nzoia for George Natembeya as more realistic and attainable political battlegrounds.

“That’s where the numbers, familiarity and relevance actually lie,” Jhanda stated.

Also Read: What It Takes to Run Against Ruto in the 2027 Presidential Race

Ruto’s Poll Lead and Opposition Struggles

His remarks come amid growing speculation and jostling within the opposition as leaders position themselves ahead of 2027, even as recent polls suggest President Ruto maintains a commanding lead over potential challengers.

While none of the leaders mentioned have formally responded to Jhanda’s comments, his post has ignited conversation online, with supporters and critics alike weighing in on whether opposition figures should recalibrate their ambitions in light of emerging political realities.

Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/honzjhanda.