Battle lines drawn as Nakuru Woman Rep race takes shape ahead of 2027

Echoing the late Otieno Kajwang’s famous call to 'get ready', Nakuru's political scene is already stirring ahead of the 2027 general election, with the woman representative seat shaping up to be one of the county's most competitive races, rivalling even the senatorial contest.

The position, currently held by Liza Chelule, has attracted seasoned politicians and ambitious newcomers alike, all of whom are seeking to redefine women’s leadership in one of Kenya’s most politically diverse counties.

First elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, Chelule remains a dominant figure in Nakuru politics. Prior to joining the National Assembly, she served as a nominated senator on the Transport and Delegated Legislation committees.

In Parliament, she has been a member of the ICT Committee and currently serves as Vice Chairperson of the Regional Development Committee and also a member of the Administration and Internal Security Committee. Her long tenure and extensive grassroots networks make her a formidable incumbent, who will be seeking re-election in the same position next year.

According to political analyst Benson Macharia, chairman of Friends of Devolution, Chelule’s political journey has often mirrored Nakuru’s delicate ethnic and party balance.

“In 2017, her rise was part of a negotiated democratic arrangement to prevent one community from dominating,” he notes.

However, Macharia adds that Chelule’s influence has been uneven.

"She’s focused heavily on Kuresoi, especially the south, where she was once thought to be eyeing a parliamentary seat," he says.

Others eyeing the seat is Assumpta Wangui Muiruri, a human rights advocate and social justice champion who first contested the election in 2017. Although she ran unsuccessfully for the London Ward MCA seat in a 2021 by-election, she has remained active in civic engagement and continues to champion inclusion and gender equity.

Another contender is Rehema Njeri, who stood for election on a Jubilee Party ticket in 2022. She represents the younger generation of female leaders. Through her foundation, the Rehema Njeri Foundation, she has led mentorship and empowerment programmes for women and girls in informal settlements. Analysts say she could re-emerge as a key player if she revives her grassroots activities.

Also entering the race is gospel artist Faith Nduhiu, who announced her candidacy earlier this year. Leveraging her strong following in the entertainment and faith communities, Nduhiu says her bid is driven by a desire to “restore hope among the youth and bring change to Nakuru politics”.

"It's time for new voices," she told Mtaa Wangu in April. "We can’t shy away from politics if we want transformation."

Since 2013, the Nakuru Woman Rep seat has reflected broader party euphoria and shifting alliances. The first holder of the seat, Mary Mbugua, won on a TNA ticket during the Jubilee wave, before losing to Chelule in the 2017 primaries.

Macharia notes that, while the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) has strengthened the office's visibility, future elections will be won by those with greater financial resources and personal appeal rather than through ethnic negotiation.

"The next election won’t be about negotiated democracy, it will be every candidate for themselves. Money, networks, and branding will decide who wins," he says.

He also highlights the potential rise of the Democratic Congress Party (DCP), which has attracted candidates such as Rehema Njeri.

"If she invests in building the party’s visibility, she could become a serious contender," Macharia observes.

According to Macharia, governor Susan Kihika is also expected to play a decisive role in shaping the ruling party’s ticket.

"You can’t ignore her influence. She was instrumental in the last lineup governor, senator, and woman representative and she’ll likely have a say again," he says.

In 2022, Chelule fended off challenges from Sally Gachia, Saida Musa, Eunice Lelei and Flora Kiprop to retain her seat. However, as 2027 approaches, the race for Nakuru’s Woman Rep promises to be a test of loyalty, money, and political evolution, one that could transform the landscape of women’s leadership in Nakuru.