As campaigns for next year’s general elections draw closer, politicians across the country are adjusting their approach by urging voters to choose capable leaders.
The shift is expected to see some wards, constituencies and counties elect leaders rather than politicians accused of failing them.
It may also cause major political parties to lose seats to candidates who are able to win voters through their personal connections.
In Lari Kirenga ward, Lari constituency, Kiambu County, MCA aspirant Stephen Ngigi, popularly known as “Kibano”, has embraced this approach.
Ngigi said many issues have been politicized, leaving voters confused even as they continue to demand development.
He urged residents to consider what each candidate can deliver and how they have related with the community before choosing the right person.
Ngigi said the preferred leader should be willing to work with residents to push for development, address societal challenges and remain approachable.
“Those days of electing the loudest politicians are over. Even as we engage in politics, we should look at what an individual can lobby for and achieve,” he said.
“Some people make many promises, but only a few will be fulfilled, or none at all,” Ngigi added.
Speaking on Sunday at a wedding at Seventh Day Adventist Church in Rukuma village within the ward, Ngigi urged residents to continue monitoring and following up on what aspirants are doing.
“There are many activities taking place in our villages, but you should look at who is supporting you,” he said.
Constituency youth leader Samson Waweru said politicians are starting early ahead of next year’s general elections, giving voters the chance to assess aspirants in nearly all seats.
Waweru noted that some people who presented themselves early have been rejected by the community, while others have been embraced and built a strong following.
“The way politics are unfolding in this county, some leaders will be elected based on how they have related with residents, not because of the popularity of a political party,” he added.
Waweru also said that in areas without a presidential candidate, strong political parties may not be the main consideration; what matters most will be who local people choose.
Political analyst Stephen Karanja, also known as Phene, said Ngigi has been meeting people in their homes, workplaces, hotels, markets and other public spaces.
“He did not adopt this strategy because he wanted to vie for this seat. This is his character; he has always associated with people. He has helped the community in many ways and has worked with residents to achieve agreed goals,” he said.