Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has established a Presidential
Exploratory Committee to evaluate the viability of him challenging President
William Ruto at the 2027 polls.
Omtatah says the committee’s chief objective is to gather,
analyse, evaluate, and act on information on his capacity to challenge for the
presidency in the August 2027 General Election.
Establishment of the committee is contained in a gazette
notice dated November 22.
“Pursuant to Article 129, as read together with Article 138
of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, it is notified for the information of the
general public that Andrew Okiya Omtatah Okoiti, the Senator of the Republic of
Kenya elected by the great people of Busia County, has established a
Presidential Exploratory Committee,” the notice reads in part.
Omtatah said he reached the decision after careful consideration and consultations with trusted advisers on how best to address issues raised by the general public with bold and innovative leadership.
"We are at a pivotal moment in our nation's history, and the call to serve has never been more urgent," he said on X.
He said he is committed to listening, learning, and building a platform that reflects the values and priorities of Kenyans.
"The road ahead requires thoughtful preparation, and this exploratory phase is a crucial step in ensuring that our vision for the future aligns with the hopes and aspirations of Kenyans. Together, we can shape a brighter future. Thank you for your support as we embark on this journey."
Omtatah has tasked Mary Kathomi Riungu to organise the
coordination of the 10-man committee’s activities and ensure timely delivery of
outputs.
Riungu will be deputised by Charles Ole Kabaiku who will
also serve as the Diaspora Coordinator.
Omtatah has tasked David Bwakali to serve as the political
and grassroots strategist, whose key mandate is to offer insights into
political trends, electoral dynamics, and identifying key strategic
opportunities.
Victor Kipng’etich has been named the committee’s legal
adviser, Hanifa Adan as Public Relations/media consultant, Jude Ogulla will be
the analytics lead tasked with conducting opinion polls and surveys while
Purity Ndambuki and Emmanuel Baraka will serve as the Joint Secretaries.
The committee’s spokesperson is Kevin Migwe Kimwatu while Omtatah has tasked Eng Julius Okara to serve as the Patron to provide guidance to the committee.
The senator said the ommittee shall remain in office for a
period not exceeding 18 months from the date of the publication.
The committee is also expected to analyse national,
regional, and demographic political trends as well as public sentiment on key
issues.
Other tasks include strategic planning senator expects the team to develop an initial campaign strategy, draft a high-level campaign roadmap outlining potential alliances, timelines, and resources required and identify and recruit potential members of the campaign team, including advisors, strategists, and key operational staff.