Battle Royale as Kihika and Lee Set to Face Off in Nakuru

A dramatic political showdown is shaping up in Nakuru County as Senator Susan Kihika has declared her intention to run for the governor’s seat, putting her on a collision course with incumbent Governor Lee Kinyanjui. With the 2022 General Election still some months away, both leaders are already positioning themselves for battle, holding talks, forming alliances, and mobilising support across the county’s varied constituencies.
Kihika told The Sunday Standard that after consulting widely with the electorate she concluded the time was right to seek the county’s top job, signalling a bold shift from her current senatorial role. Meanwhile, Kinyanjui insists he remains committed to finishing his second and final term, emphasising that his record in infrastructure, agriculture and health speaks for itself. Political analysts say the stakes are high given Nakuru’s significance as one of Kenya’s most populous and politically competitive counties; the contest is amplified by the broader presidential succession race and shifting alliances at national level.
Reactions across the county have been mixed. Supporters of Kihika have applauded her ambition, viewing her move as a fresh alternative to the status-quo and a chance for stronger accountability. On the other hand, Kinyanjui’s base highlights his development credentials and cautions that experience matters in navigating county politics. Observers note the rivalry could intensify intra-party dynamics within the ruling coalition and spark early fragmentation in County Assembly and parliamentary seats.
Looking ahead, the unfolding duel between Kihika and Kinyanjui is likely to redefine political alignments in Nakuru ahead of 2027 and beyond. The next few months will test how each candidate builds alliances, crafts tangible policy platforms and appeals to Nakuru’s diverse electorate. Ultimately, the winner may not only claim the governor’s chair but also reset power dynamics between county and national levels.