Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has light-heartedly offered to become Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s running mate in the 2032 General Election, citing the opposition politician’s growing popularity in recent opinion polls.
Speaking during a Senate debate, Cherargei referred to the latest Infotrak presidential popularity survey, which placed President William Ruto ahead of the pack with 32 per cent support. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka ranked second with 13 per cent, while Sifuna and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i tied for third place at 12 per cent each.
“I saw the Infotrak survey and I am happy that President William Ruto will vanquish and trash his opponents,” Cherargei said.
Turning to Sifuna, the senator acknowledged the Nairobi lawmaker’s impressive showing despite not having declared an interest in the presidency.
“My brother Sifuna is at 12 per cent, though he has not declared that he is running for president, so he is doing very well. In the next six months he will be number two,” Cherargei said.
He, however, argued that politics ultimately rewards only the winner.
“But the problem in politics is there is no number two, my brother. And you have been told by Central Organisation of Trade Unions Secretary General Francis Atwoli to look for money for campaigns,” he added, drawing laughter in the House.
Cherargei then jokingly proposed a future political alliance with the Nairobi senator.
“I want to appeal to Sifuna to remain calm, relax, and remain as senator for Nairobi; then, come 2032, I can cede presidential ambitions and become your running mate so that we can win government and fix this country,” he said.
The remarks come as Sifuna continues to attract growing national attention, with his rising profile fuelling speculation over his political future.
The Nairobi senator has emerged as one of the country’s most vocal opposition leaders, earning recognition through his sharp criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, spirited parliamentary debates and strong appeal among young voters.
His popularity has also been boosted by the nationwide Linda Mwananchi campaign, which has drawn large crowds across several counties.
The rallies, focused on the high cost of living, unemployment, governance and accountability, have strengthened his standing within opposition ranks, with some supporters openly urging him to seek the presidency in 2027.
Within opposition circles, Sifuna is increasingly viewed as a key figure in shaping the coalition’s strategy ahead of the next General Election. While some supporters have called on him to contest the presidency, others have floated his name as a potential running mate on a united opposition ticket.
