NAIROBI, Kenya: Political analyst Herman Manyora has claimed that President William Ruto could be using opinion polls attributed to TIFFA Research to influence political calculations within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Manyora argues that the polling figures could be shaping perceptions about the relative political strength of ODM and its leaders, particularly Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.
According to the analyst, the strategy could involve portraying ODM as politically weaker while presenting Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as a more influential political figure, potentially limiting the party's bargaining power in any proposed political arrangement with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
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Manyora further suggested that the growing attention around Sifuna's political popularity could be used to influence ODM's internal calculations and its approach to possible cooperation with UDA.
He argued that such a political environment could make ODM leaders feel increasingly compelled to associate with the ruling party, even as questions remain over how power and political influence would be shared.
The analyst also raised concerns about the possible implications for ODM's parliamentary representation, suggesting that an arrangement with UDA could leave the ruling party with greater influence over constituencies currently associated with ODM.
His remarks come amid ongoing political discussions surrounding the future of ODM, its relationship with the ruling coalition and the positioning of different political leaders ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, Manyora's remarks represent his interpretation of the political developments and do not independently establish that the President or UDA is manipulating opinion polls or pursuing the alleged strategy.
The debate over polling figures, political alliances and the distribution of power is likely to remain part of the national conversation as parties position themselves ahead of the next General Election.