Pastor Kanyari Opens Up on Possible 2027 Political Bid
Kenya’s controversial televangelist Pastor Victor Kanyari has fuelled speculation about a possible entry into politics after suggesting he could contest for an elective seat in the 2027 General Elections.
Kanyari made the remarks while addressing congregants during a Sunday service at his Salvation Healing Ministry on December 14, 2025, where he reflected on his past political loyalties and his current disengagement from national politics.
The self-proclaimed prophet disclosed that he had previously been a staunch supporter of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, revealing that his political participation in past elections was largely driven by his loyalty to the veteran opposition leader. Kanyari claimed that Odinga’s death had left him politically disillusioned and uncertain about whether he would participate in future elections as a voter.
“I was a Raila Odinga supporter. During Uhuru’s time, I supported him and we lost. Now he is gone, so I don’t see myself voting for a president again unless I decide to stand for another seat,” Kanyari told his congregation.
He added that he would only consider voting again if he personally entered the political arena in the next election cycle.
“Maybe if I decide to vie for a seat in 2027, then I will vote at that time. Otherwise, I wouldn’t,” he said.
Kanyari went on to claim that his interest in political news had significantly declined following Odinga’s death, explaining that his engagement with current affairs was previously motivated by his support for the former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader.
“I no longer watch the news. I used to follow politics because of Raila Odinga. Now that he is gone, I don’t watch news anymore,” he stated.
During the same address, the pastor also issued a warning to both politicians and the public over the increasing use of viral political slogans such as “wantam” and “tutam,” which have gained traction across social media platforms ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Come out and work. Stop saying ‘wantam’ and ‘tutam’,” Kanyari cautioned, urging leaders to focus on service delivery rather than catchy campaign phrases.
Kanyari’s remarks come amid a growing trend of Kenyan celebrities and public figures declaring interest in elective politics ahead of the next general election.
Earlier this year, flamboyant musician and entrepreneur Karagu Kimani, popularly known as KRG The Don, reaffirmed his intention to run for the Nairobi senatorial seat in 2027. Speaking on November 24, 2025, KRG urged Nairobi residents to register as voters, describing the ballot as a powerful tool for change.
“Your vote is what will change everything in the 2027 General Elections. Nairobi residents, youths and mothers, come out in large numbers and vote,” he said.
Social media personality Cassypool has also announced plans to contest the Nairobi governor’s seat, insisting he would run a clean campaign without attacking incumbent Governor Johnson Sakaja.
“I want to be the governor of Nairobi. Sakaja is working and doing his best. I won’t badmouth him. Let’s all meet in 2027,” Cassypool said on December 1.
Comedian Jaymo Ule Msee has similarly declared his intention to challenge Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna in the upcoming polls, underscoring the increasing crossover between celebrity culture and Kenyan politics.
With 2027 drawing closer, Pastor Kanyari’s comments are likely to intensify debate over whether he will formally transition from the pulpit to the political stage.
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Pastor Kanyari Opens Up on Possible 2027 Political Bid