Ruto, Omtatah, Uhuru Kenyatta Among Powerful People Mentioned as Kenyans Told to Expect This in 2026

Kenya is set for an eventful 2026, with a mix of seasoned political heavyweights and rising influencers expected to shape the country’s political, governance and public discourse, according to a Nation Africa feature on movers and shakers to watch.

At the centre of attention will be President William Ruto, whose administration will be entering a critical phase ahead of the 2027 General Election. 

His policy decisions, political alliances and handling of economic pressures are expected to dominate national conversations as Kenyans assess the performance of his first term in office.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is also expected to play a key role as the government’s second-in-command, particularly in matters of security, governance and regional diplomacy. 

His growing visibility and influence within government circles will be closely monitored as succession politics slowly take shape.

Despite having retired from active politics, former President Uhuru Kenyatta remains a significant figure whose moves continue to attract attention. 

His influence within opposition circles and his role in behind-the-scenes political engagements are expected to remain relevant as alignments ahead of 2027 begin to crystallise.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, now leading the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), is another figure expected to command attention. 

His efforts to position himself politically and consolidate support, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, are likely to shape opposition politics and realignments in the coming year.

On the opposition front, veteran leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka and Oburu Oginga are expected to remain influential as discussions around coalition building and leadership direction intensify. 

Their decisions could significantly affect the balance of power as political camps reorganise ahead of the next election cycle.

The judiciary will also remain in focus, with Chief Justice Martha Koome expected to continue steering the courts through politically sensitive cases and constitutional questions that could have far-reaching implications for governance and electoral processes.

Beyond politics, civil society voices such as Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah are expected to remain prominent in public debates, particularly on governance, accountability and constitutionalism. 

His activism and legal challenges against government actions are likely to keep him in the national spotlight.