According to the survey released on Thursday, May 14, 2026, 28 per cent of respondents who identified with opposition candidates said they would support a Kalonzo-Sifuna presidential ticket in the next election.
The findings highlight increasing political discussions around possible coalition arrangements as opposition leaders seek strategies that could strengthen their chances against President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza administration in 2027.
The poll also showed strong support for a possible alliance between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kalonzo Musyoka.
The Gachagua-Kalonzo combination ranked second with 25 per cent support, reflecting a close contest over who could eventually lead a united opposition front.
TIFA noted that other possible pairings continue to attract interest among opposition supporters as political conversations intensify across the country.
“Among Opposition candidate supporters, the combination of Kalonzo and Matiangi attracts slightly more support than that of Kalonzo and Sifuna.
How much influence public opinion will have in this selection process remains to be seen,” the report stated.
The survey suggests that Kalonzo Musyoka remains one of the most influential opposition figures as discussions around coalition-building continue to gain momentum ahead of the next election cycle.
Political observers say Edwin Sifuna’s strong showing in the poll points to his growing national profile beyond Nairobi and within opposition politics.
The ODM Secretary-General has in recent years become one of the most visible voices in national political debates, particularly on governance and accountability issues.
The emergence of Rigathi Gachagua as part of preferred opposition combinations also reflects his continued political influence despite his fallout with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Since leaving office, Gachagua has intensified grassroots mobilisation through his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), particularly in the Mt Kenya region.
Analysts note that opposition supporters may increasingly prioritise coalition unity and regional balance as key factors in determining a strong presidential ticket capable of mounting a serious challenge in 2027.
The latest findings are expected to fuel further speculation over possible political alliances and negotiations among opposition leaders in the coming months.
