By Hassan Wekesa - Editor
Kenya, 16 November 2025 - Kenyan lawyer and outspoken critic Dr Miguna Miguna has sparked talk of a 2027 presidential bid by announcing his readiness for a major debate against figures who have expressed interest in Kenya's top job.
Dr Miguna stated he is gearing up to face off with President William Ruto and several prominent politicians in a televised debate.
In an update on his X (formerly Twitter) page on Saturday, Miguna presented himself as a strong contender, referencing surprise wins by outsiders and promising to perform even much better than he did when he was vying to be the Governor of Nairobi City County
He named President Ruto, Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, ex-Chief Justice David Maraga, Jubilee Party deputy leader Fred Matiang’i, and ousted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Should the debate come to materialise, Miguna said the fireworks would be improved version of his 2017 debate for Nairobi gubernatorial seat against Mike Sonko, Evans Kidero, and Peter Kenneth.
Miguna is known for his bold, fearless, and direct approach, qualities that have established him as a relentless speaker.
Miguna was forcibly removed from Kenya in 2018 after participating in a symbolic oath-taking ceremony for opposition figure, the late Raila Odinga as the People’s President, and has consistently challenged the country's political elite.
He places great importance on achieving a fair and democratic nation.
His return to the country soon after President Ruto took power – following a lengthy court fight – intensified his demands for sweeping changes.
However, he later returned to Canada, where he operates a thriving legal practice.
His latest online statements show someone honing skills for a potential run at the highest office.
While demanding that Dr Ruto serve only one term, he has repeatedly dismissed competitors such as Dr Matiang’i, accusing him of disregarding judicial rulings in the deportation matter.
Miguna's expulsion occurred under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, when Dr Matiang’i was Interior Cabinet Secretary.
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To support his argument, Miguna highlighted the unexpected success of Mayor-Elect of New York City Zohran Kwame Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist who climbed from 1% in surveys to election win within a year.
“In New York, Zohran Mamdani, the Democratic Socialist, was polled at 1% at the beginning of the race and won 12 months later. Mamdani’s, vision, integrity, focus, programmes and superior debating skills won over the billionaire bandits,” Miguna observed, portraying his effort as a victory of principles against Kenya’s “organised bandits”.
The message ended with a defiant slogan: “The People Shall—Mandatory! Viva!”
Miguna’s move coincides with President Ruto, on a visit to Ukambani, claiming rivals lack detailed plans for the country.
“When they come here, you will hear three things: ‘Kasongo, one-term, Ruto Must Go!’. How will that change this country?” Ruto joked at the new Kitui State Lodge.
Miguna, meanwhile, stresses that any worthwhile leader must demonstrate integrity.
With 2027 approaching, his call for a debate highlights a packed lineup: Ruto pursues another term, Mr Musyoka plans a return to the presidential race, former CJ Maraga seeks crowdfunding for anti-graft efforts, Matiang’i seeks Jubilee support, and Gachagua develops his Democracy for Citizens Party.
Miguna’s daring involvement might alter the storyline, showing that, as with Mamdani, long-shots should not be dismissed.
Boasting more than 3.1 million followers on X, Miguna uses his reach to promote ability-based leadership instead of “ethnic chauvinism”.
It is not yet known if the clearing agencies will give a nod to his candidature when time comes, but it is evident: Dr Miguna Miguna is not planning to watch from the sidelines.
“I am putting my hat in the ring,” Miguna said in a video clip on 8 November 2025, just some few days before calling for debate.
He says that he shall consolidate support under the People’s Patriotic Coalition.
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