The findings show that although many opposition supporters want the coalition to settle on its presidential ticket early, there is no clear agreement on the most suitable time to make the announcement.
According to the survey released on Thursday, November 12, 45 per cent of respondents want the opposition to reveal its presidential candidate and running mate between January and March 2027.
Another 35 per cent believe the announcement should be made before the end of 2026, while 16 per cent prefer that the coalition waits until between April and June next year. Three per cent were undecided.
Tifa noted that while early next year was the most popular choice, a considerable number of opposition supporters wanted the leaders to reach an agreement before the year ends.
The survey comes at a time when opposition figures are holding consultations in an effort to build a united political front capable of challenging Ruto's re-election bid.
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has been at the centre of the negotiations, hosting several opposition leaders at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri County.
Following a meeting with DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka on October 26, Gachagua expressed confidence that the leaders would eventually settle on one presidential candidate.
Other politicians believed to be interested in the opposition ticket include Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang'i, People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua and Linda Mwananchi's Edwin Sifuna.
The research also examined whether supporters believe the different opposition formations can overcome their political differences and work together before the next election.
On this question, 57 per cent said it was very likely that the Linda Mwananchi and Ukombozi opposition groups would unite, while 22 per cent considered such an arrangement somewhat likely.
However, 8 per cent viewed unity as not very likely, with another 7 per cent ruling it out completely. Six per cent were undecided.
The findings suggest that despite competition for the presidential ticket, most opposition supporters remain hopeful that their leaders will eventually agree on a common political position.
Tifa conducted the survey through face-to-face interviews involving 2,036 respondents across nine regions between October 26 and November 5, 2026. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.16 per cent.
Source:https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-11-12-opposition-supporters-divided-on-when-to-name-flagbearer?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAcGRvZgNzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8yNzUyNTQ2OTI1OTgyNzkAAR_SLy1JmT7fALXc6jBUew3ClaXJPPfjtr2kmq2IfZCVrmLAlCmdowMWKIk3Vw_aem_aWDRHnPmK4uTJVNs26ndxA
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