Ruto and Sifuna Share Top Spot as Kenya’s 2027 Race Takes Shape

President William Ruto and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna are level in a fresh measure of 2027 presidential preferences. The result adds a new dimension to the race.

A TIFA Research poll released on Thursday, November 12, places both leaders at 31 per cent. The result marks a sharp change from June, when Ruto stood at 24 per cent and Sifuna at 15 per cent.

Sifuna’s rise is especially notable because earlier surveys cited in the report recorded no support for him between August 2022 and November 2025. His latest figure puts him alongside the sitting President in the poll’s ranking.

The survey also records movement among other prominent political figures. Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i is at five per cent, down from 32 per cent in August 2022.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka is placed at nine per cent, after reaching 25 per cent in November 2025. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua records four per cent, compared with seven per cent in June.

The findings will draw attention from both government and opposition camps. Ruto’s supporters can point to his rise since June, while Sifuna’s supporters may view the tie as evidence that his national profile is growing.

However, a poll is a snapshot of opinion, not a declaration of who will win the election. The figures do not establish how support may shift as campaigns develop, parties settle on candidates, or alliances take shape.

TIFA also asked Ruto supporters about their preferred running mate. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki led that question with 55 per cent, followed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at 12 per cent and Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho at nine per cent.

Among 758 opposition supporters surveyed on possible unity between Linda Mwananchi and the United Opposition/Ukombozi group, 57 per cent said a joint position was very likely. Another 22 per cent considered it somewhat likely, although views differed on when leaders should announce a joint ticket.

With the 2027 contest still taking shape, does this tie signal a lasting shift in voter preferences, or is it too early to read it as a serious challenge to Ruto?