Activist and Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah.[COURTESY]
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has announced the formation of an exploratory presidential committee, with plans to assess the viability of his potential candidacy in the 2027 General Election. The committee, as published in the Kenya Gazette on Friday, will explore the senator’s chances of running for president, aiming to align his vision with the aspirations of Kenyans ahead of the August 27, 2027 elections.
“I am at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history, and the call to serve has never been more urgent. After careful consideration and consultations with trusted advisors, community leaders, and citizens from all walks of life, I am pleased to announce the formation of a Presidential Exploratory Committee,” Omtatah said in a statement on Saturday.
The six-member committee will focus on several key tasks, including conducting opinion polls to gauge the senator’s popularity, evaluating political trends, and assessing public sentiment on key national issues. They will also develop a campaign strategy and draft an initial roadmap outlining potential alliances, timelines, and resources for the campaign.
Additionally, the committee will explore the senator’s ability to raise campaign funds and ensure compliance with Kenya’s electoral finance regulations. The committee, which will be led by Mary Kathomi Riungu, will serve for a period not exceeding 18 months and will be dissolved once Senator Omtatah formally announces his decision to run or not run.
The members of the committee include Charles Ile Kabaiku as deputy chairperson, and David John Bwakali, who will serve as the political and grassroots strategist.
Omtatah, a first-time senator and activist, is known for his vocal stance on public interest issues, particularly through his court actions against government policies he deems oppressive or illegal. He joined politics as an independent candidate in 2022 and has continued to build his influence ahead of the upcoming election cycle.
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