Party Politics Taking Shape in Nakuru as 2027 Elections Approach

Political alliances in Nakuru County are already crystallising ahead of the 2027 general elections, with ruling-cohort figures from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) forging a unified front against perceived opposition threats. During a three-day tour in the county led by Kithure Kindiki, the Deputy President, lawmakers aligned with the government publicly de-campaigned party members seen as shifting loyalty, urging residents to back both President William Ruto and Governor Susan Kihika for two terms.
Among the key moves: leaders such as Kimani Ichung’wah (Speaker of the National Assembly), MPs Sabina Chege and Liza Chelule, and Woman Representatives (including those from neighbouring counties) publicly backed Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria as their preferred candidate for the county’s Senate seat in 2027. Meanwhile, Governor Kihika openly apologised to residents for earlier backing of a Senatorial aspirant she said had under-performed, and pledged to continue her development agenda—highlighting projects such as the Rift Valley Regional Trauma Centre as cornerstones of her campaign for re-election.
The move signals that Nakuru is quickly becoming a strategic battleground, with battle lines drawn over both local and national power. Beneficiaries from the tour included boda-boda riders who received helmets, reflectors and even motorbikes, and generous payouts from politicians — ranging from KSh 100,000–200,000 at each event, with some reaching KSh 500,000 or more. With heavy-hitting national figures present and the distribution of material incentives underway, observers say the groundwork being laid goes beyond typical campaigning and hints at high-stakes positioning for major posts.
As 2027 looms, the unfolding alignments in Nakuru will be closely watched for their impact on Kenya’s broader political mosaic. Whether the UDA-led camp can maintain cohesion, counter emerging opposition formations, and deliver on promises will determine the outcome. For voters, the key question is whether the pledges and alliances translate into real change—or simply set the scene for another round of contest-heavy politics.