Human rights activist Boniface Mwangi has announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 general elections.

He officially launched his presidential campaign on Wednesday during Katiba Day at Ufungamano House.

Mwangi now joins a growing list of candidates aiming to challenge President William Ruto.

Others expressing interest in the presidential race include Mumias East MP Peter Salasya and former Chief Justice David Maraga, among several contenders.

At the launch, Mwangi called on Kenyans to reflect on his impactful journey and embrace a pivotal moment in Kenya’s path forward.

“To mark 15 years since the promulgation of the Constitution, let’s gather to honour what we have done together, out of love for our country,” he said.

“We have always fought for a better country, and now it is time to unveil new possibilities of building that Kenya, a Kenya that works for all of us.”

Katiba Day, the anniversary of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, was this week designated by President William Ruto as a national observance, not a public holiday, to be marked with civic activities across government institutions, schools and diplomatic missions, reaffirming Kenyans’ commitment to constitutional governance.

Mwangi, 42, rose to prominence after documenting the 2007 – 2008 post-election violence as a photojournalist. His work earned him international recognition but also put him at odds with powerful political figures.

In the years that followed, he spearheaded anti-corruption campaigns, organised youth-led protests and became a vocal critic of successive governments, branding Kenya’s politics as dominated by dynasties and patronage networks.

Mwangi’s declaration comes at a time when street protests, often led by Gen Z activists, have rattled the political establishment.

Observers note that his candidacy could galvanize a protest vote into political momentum or expose the limits of activism in electoral politics.

Kenyans head to the polls in 2027 in what is expected to be another fiercely contested election, with Ruto seeking a second term.