Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s rising popularity positions him as a potential presidential candidate for 2027, yet a crucial consideration looms: does he possess the financial resources to support a substantial political campaign?
Critics question whether the former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Secretary-General can gather the billions needed for a competitive presidential bid.
Leaders from Western Kenya, increasingly rallying behind Sifuna, have begun proposing innovative strategies to mobilize resources, aiming to elevate their candidate’s prospects.
Malala’s Ksh3 Billion Initiative
Former Kakamega Senator and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala, now a supporter of Sifuna, recognizes that financial backing is essential for a successful presidential campaign.
He encourages the community to financially empower Sifuna, ensuring he can effectively compete against his rivals.
To that end, Malala has proposed a Ksh3 billion fundraising campaign targeting residents of Western Kenya to jumpstart Sifuna’s presidential aspirations.
Sifuna’s Bukhungu Fundraiser
Malala envisions launching this fundraising effort at Bukhungu Stadium, where attendees would contribute livestock and food items for guests. He suggests constructing a tent accommodating 3,000 people, with each participant contributing Ksh1 million for a seat.
This initiative aims to amass Ksh3 billion, providing a solid foundation for Sifuna’s campaign.
“Let’s gather 3,000 attendees at Bukhungu; the Luhya community is strong, and we want each person to contribute Ksh1 million. Together, we can raise Ksh3 billion. A Ksh1 million dinner plate fundraiser at Bukhungu Stadium will propel Sifuna’s campaign forward.”
Malala envisions that once this effort succeeds in Western Kenya, other supportive communities should replicate the initiative to fortify Sifuna’s presidential bid.
He also proposes setting up a Paybill number for young supporters to contribute at least Ksh100 each, reinforcing the campaign’s financial base.
Natembeya’s Support Strategy
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has also pledged his support for Sifuna’s campaign, urging the community to contribute to his presidential ambitions.
He advocates for the establishment of a campaign Paybill, allowing the public to contribute a minimum of Ksh100 to help launch Sifuna’s efforts. Natembeya suggests accepting any funds being distributed in the region by state operatives, using half for immediate needs and depositing the rest into Sifuna’s campaign account.
Khalwale’s Fundraising Approach
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale recently highlighted a local media report indicating that businessman Ibrahim Ambwere expressed frustration over dismissive comments from government-affiliated politicians regarding Sifuna’s financial capability. This report hints at Ambwere’s potential support for Sifuna’s campaign.
Aspirants Supporting Sifuna
Moreover, Bungoma businessman and gubernatorial aspirant Jimmy Nduruchi, during a strategic meeting, committed to selling a piece of his land, dedicating the entire proceeds to Sifuna’s presidential campaign.
The residents of Western Kenya have shown strong support for Sifuna. At a recent funeral attended by the Nairobi senator, mourners enthusiastically chanted “Paybill! Paybill!”, leading Sifuna to unveil a fundraising Paybill. Remarkably, this initiative raised over Ksh2 million within just two days of its launch.
This momentum builds amid claims that former President Uhuru Kenyatta finances Sifuna’s political activities—allegations that the senator has firmly refuted.
