Among the most vocal leaders backing the proposal is Jack Wamboka, who stated that the Luhya community can no longer afford to remain without a presidential candidate during a major election cycle.
According to Wamboka, leaders within his political camp have already begun laying the groundwork for a serious presidential bid intended to challenge President Ruto in 2027.
He also criticized senior government-allied Western Kenya leaders, arguing that the region has been sidelined despite its large voting population and political influence.
Wamboka further claimed that key political negotiations ahead of the next election are allegedly taking place without meaningful involvement from Western Kenya leaders outside the ruling coalition.
The push has also received backing from some regional elders. Leaders associated with the Luhya Council of Elders reportedly stated that they have already agreed internally on a preferred presidential candidate, although they declined to publicly reveal the individual’s identity.
According to elder Lucas Gavala, sections of the community are dissatisfied with calls by Moses Wetang'ula and Musalia Mudavadi urging the region to support President Ruto’s reelection bid.
Some leaders within the opposition-aligned Linda Mwananchi movement have also echoed similar sentiments.
During rallies held in Vihiga County, James Orengo reportedly argued that the movement should eventually produce a presidential candidate capable of competing nationally.
The emerging calls place additional political pressure on pro-government leaders from Western Kenya who have continued advocating support for Ruto’s second term.
Wetang’ula has previously urged the Luhya community to back Ruto in 2027, arguing that such support could improve the region’s chances of securing the presidency in 2032.
Political analysts say the debate highlights increasing political fragmentation within Western Kenya as leaders pursue different strategies ahead of the next election.
Observers also note that the Luhya vote, which has historically been divided among multiple parties and candidates, could become one of the most decisive blocs in 2027 if regional leaders unite behind a single candidate.
Analysts further suggest that a stronger independent Western Kenya presidential bid could complicate coalition mathematics nationally and potentially influence whether the election proceeds to a runoff.