Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has emerged as the most preferred potential running mate for President William Ruto, according to the Swiss Poll International survey.
Waiguru reportedly garnered 43 per cent of respondents’ support, ahead of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who came second with 30 per cent.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga ranked third with 13 per cent, followed by former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya at six per cent. Hassan Ali Joho and other potential candidates also featured in the poll, although their respective percentages were not specified.
The findings raise questions about the factors shaping Kenyans’ preferences for Ruto’s potential running mate, including regional representation, gender and the political considerations surrounding the choice of a deputy.
Waiguru’s support could prompt further debate about the role of the Mount Kenya region in shaping the ruling coalition’s political calculations, as well as whether voters are considering gender representation when assessing possible candidates.
However, the poll results alone do not establish why respondents prefer particular candidates. Further analysis of the survey’s regional breakdown and respondents’ stated reasons would be needed to determine the extent to which regional identity, gender or other political considerations influenced their choices.
The findings add another dimension to the survey’s broader examination of party popularity, presidential preferences and public sentiment about the country’s direction.
