Speaking on Sunday during a roadside engagement with residents in Luanda town and Mudete, Vihiga County, Amisi said his decision is motivated by a desire to help Kenya regain its lost standing, which he attributes to mismanagement by the current administration.
He criticized President Ruto for prioritizing personal political agendas over national development, claiming that leaders, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, have been used to further political interests at the expense of ordinary Kenyans.
“I will come back here on the 9th not to seek votes as an MCA, Women Representative, or Senator, but for the President of the Republic of Kenya. I will be seeking votes to lead this country,” Amisi said.
Amisi, a member of the Kenya Moja caucus alongside ODM Secretary Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, has been carving an independent political path, focusing on issues affecting communities and youth, rather than relying solely on party structures.
Earlier in July, he threatened to leave ODM due to the party’s collaboration with the Kenya Kwanza administration, arguing that such alliances diluted its core principles.
“I am a member of ODM, and I was elected on an ODM ticket for five years. If ODM continues collaborating with William Ruto, I will not seek re-election with the party,” Amisi stated.
Despite his growing profile, Amisi has faced criticism for his aggressive political style and for mobilizing a youthful political base. Elders from Trans Nzoia County publicly urged both Amisi and Sifuna to resign from their positions, arguing that stepping down would allow by-elections to test their political credibility independently of ODM support.
Amisi dismissed the calls for resignation, emphasizing that his priority is addressing injustices faced by his community and ensuring that young people have a meaningful role in shaping the country’s future.
He did not reveal whether he would run under the ODM banner or through a new political vehicle to be registered before the 2027 elections.
Observers note that Amisi’s announcement adds another layer to the evolving political landscape as the 2027 elections draw closer, highlighting growing tensions between independent political ambitions and established party structures.
Amisi’s challenge to President Ruto reflects broader concerns among some leaders and voters about governance, youth engagement, and national development. By emphasizing youth participation and community issues, he aims to position himself as a candidate for change, appealing to a new generation of voters.
The 2027 presidential race is expected to be highly competitive, with several leaders from different parties declaring their intentions to contest. Amisi’s early announcement signals his commitment to mobilizing support well ahead of the election campaigns.
Residents in Vihiga County welcomed his announcement, expressing hope that fresh leadership could bring about reforms and development, particularly for marginalized communities.