Nakuru Town East residents welcome fresh start as Gikaria eyes Senate

Residents of Nakuru Town East say they are ready for a new chapter in the constituency’s leadership, marking the end of a political era that has lasted more than a decade. MP David Gikaria has made his intention to run for the Nakuru Senate seat in 2027, and locals are now looking ahead to what they describe as an opportunity for a fresh start.

Mr Gikaria, popularly known as TM, has held the seat since 2013. His decision to pursue a Senate seat sets the stage for a competitive race, with several potential successors already expressing interest.

For many residents, this transition offers a long-awaited opportunity to bring new ideas to the constituency.

“We are happy that a new leader is guaranteed come 2027. The time for change has come. We need a breath of fresh air and a leader who understands the youth. Most of us are young, and we want someone who sees things from our perspective," Patrick Mwangi, a Barnabas resident says.

Mr Mwangi credits the outgoing MP for holding onto the seat for over 10 years.

"Gikaria always played his political cards right. He connected with people, and that’s how he stayed on for so long. Anyone coming in will have big shoes to fill,” he says.

Across the constituency, residents say that this political shift reflects a wider trend in Nakuru County, where voters often favour leaders who bring new ideas and energy.

"In Biashara Ward, MCAs rarely serve more than one term, and even at the county level, leadership changes often. People here value fresh thinking. The only constant has been at MP level, but now that is changing,” John Njoroge says.

He says that the demands of the constituency have evolved, especially since Nakuru Town East is at the heart of the city.

"We expect strong leadership, better infrastructure, more opportunities for young people, and accountability and transparency. Whoever takes over must understand the pressure that comes with leading an urban constituency," Mr Njoroge says.

Laban Omusundi, a governance advocate, agrees that the transition marks an important moment for Nakuru Town East.

“Fifteen years in leadership is a long time. No matter how good a leader is, renewal is necessary. We need someone who can view emerging issues differently and bring a fresh approach," Mr Omusundi says.

Mr Omusundi highlights several issues that the next MP will need to address.

"The constituency needs stronger oversight. Even issues like the fishing conflict in Lake Nakuru National Park require policy intervention. These are matters that have gone unresolved for years," he says.

However, he warns that the race will be far from straightforward.

"Nakuru Town East is a unique constituency. Voting patterns change with every election cycle, the population is diverse, and the seat is highly coveted. More than five aspirants have already shown interest, and that number keeps rising," he says.

Boniface Ndumia, Maina Wakabura, Wilson Mwangi (Wajeff), Bernad Nguruna and Dr Julius Kariuki have already declared their intention to succeed Mr Gikaria, and more are expected to join the contest as the election date approaches.

For residents, the upcoming polls represent more than just a change of names on the ballot, it represents a new political direction for Nakuru Town East. According to them the constituency is ready for new leadership, new ideas and a new vision for its rapidly changing urban electorate.