President William Ruto has suffered a setback after Roselinda Simiyu, wife to COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli, publicly declared her support for the opposition.
Photo: Roselinda Simiyu addressing a political gathering during a past Kenya Kwanza rally.
Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, Roselinda endorsed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna for the presidency, stating that many Kenyans are dissatisfied with the current administration.
Her position sharply contrasts that of her husband, Francis Atwoli, who has remained a strong supporter of President Ruto’s re-election bid.
Sifuna continues to gain support nationally as he positions himself as a strong candidate within the opposition. A recent poll by Trends and Insights For Africa (TIFA) indicated rising support for a united opposition front, with a Kalonzo Musyoka–Edwin Sifuna ticket emerging as a preferred choice among opposition supporters.
He has also expressed willingness to work with other opposition leaders under the United Opposition umbrella ahead of the 2027 elections.
There are reports that he could be offered a running mate slot should he withdraw his candidature and back the United Opposition.
The Nairobi Senator has consistently urged opposition leaders to unite behind a single presidential candidate, arguing that unity remains the most effective strategy to unseat President Ruto.