Wambui Faith
EMURUA DIKIRR – The battle for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in Emurua Dikirr has taken a dramatic turn as the race to succeed the late Johana Ng’eno enters its final stretch. In a weekend defined by high-stakes political maneuvering, the field narrowed significantly following the unexpected withdrawal of the former MP’s widow and a series of strategic endorsements.
Family and Health: Naiyanoi Ng’eno Steps Aside
In a move that has sent ripples through the constituency, Naiyanoi Ng’eno, the widow of the late legislator, has officially withdrawn her candidacy. Despite being an early frontrunner with the family’s blessing, family spokesperson David Ngetich confirmed that the decision was made to allow Ms. Ng’eno time to recover from illness and the personal toll of her husband’s passing.
"The rigors of a campaign are demanding, and as a family, we have decided to prioritize her health and healing," Ngetich stated, noting that the decision was finalized last Thursday.
The "PA" Strategy: Consolidation of the Ng’eno Legacy
The widow’s exit has triggered a swift realignment among the late MP’s inner circle. Following a marathon six-hour consultative meeting in Bomet on Saturday, two key contenders—Ezra Sawe and Bernard Rono—agreed to shelve their ambitions.
The group has now thrown its full weight behind Bernard Ngeno, the late MP’s former personal assistant. Ngeno, who positioned himself as the "unity candidate," emphasized his commitment to completing the projects left behind by his former boss. "Our union is a response to the voters’ demand for a consolidated front," Ngeno said, flanked by his former rivals.
The Road to March 27
The race is now a high-stakes four-way contest. Bernard Ngeno will face off against:
David Keter: A prominent businessman and perennial challenger who recently secured the endorsement of Elkerin Ward MCA Ezekiel Korir.
Kibet Rotich: A career police officer.
Joseph Kiprono Koech: A professional accountant.
UDA National Elections Board Chairman Anthony Mwaura, accompanied by Education PS Prof. Julius Bitok, visited the constituency to finalize logistics. Mwaura reassured residents that the nominations—set for March 27—will be conducted in local primary schools and will remain strictly "free, fair, and democratic," echoing President William Ruto’s directive against external interference.
A Seat Born of Tragedy
The May 14 by-election, estimated to cost Sh59 million, follows the tragic death of Johana Ng’eno in a February 28 helicopter crash in Nandi County. Ng’eno, a titan of Narok politics, had represented the constituency for three consecutive terms since its inception in 2013. The upcoming vote across the four wards of Ilkerin, Mogondo, Kapsasian, and Ololmasani will determine who carries the mantle of the constituency's first-ever leadership transition.
Family and Health: Naiyanoi Ng’eno Steps Aside
In a move that has sent ripples through the constituency, Naiyanoi Ng’eno, the widow of the late legislator, has officially withdrawn her candidacy. Despite being an early frontrunner with the family’s blessing, family spokesperson David Ngetich confirmed that the decision was made to allow Ms. Ng’eno time to recover from illness and the personal toll of her husband’s passing.
"The rigors of a campaign are demanding, and as a family, we have decided to prioritize her health and healing," Ngetich stated, noting that the decision was finalized last Thursday.
The "PA" Strategy: Consolidation of the Ng’eno Legacy
The widow’s exit has triggered a swift realignment among the late MP’s inner circle. Following a marathon six-hour consultative meeting in Bomet on Saturday, two key contenders—Ezra Sawe and Bernard Rono—agreed to shelve their ambitions.
The group has now thrown its full weight behind Bernard Ngeno, the late MP’s former personal assistant. Ngeno, who positioned himself as the "unity candidate," emphasized his commitment to completing the projects left behind by his former boss. "Our union is a response to the voters’ demand for a consolidated front," Ngeno said, flanked by his former rivals.
The Road to March 27
The race is now a high-stakes four-way contest. Bernard Ngeno will face off against:
David Keter: A prominent businessman and perennial challenger who recently secured the endorsement of Elkerin Ward MCA Ezekiel Korir.
Kibet Rotich: A career police officer.
Joseph Kiprono Koech: A professional accountant.
UDA National Elections Board Chairman Anthony Mwaura, accompanied by Education PS Prof. Julius Bitok, visited the constituency to finalize logistics. Mwaura reassured residents that the nominations—set for March 27—will be conducted in local primary schools and will remain strictly "free, fair, and democratic," echoing President William Ruto’s directive against external interference.
A Seat Born of Tragedy
The May 14 by-election, estimated to cost Sh59 million, follows the tragic death of Johana Ng’eno in a February 28 helicopter crash in Nandi County. Ng’eno, a titan of Narok politics, had represented the constituency for three consecutive terms since its inception in 2013. The upcoming vote across the four wards of Ilkerin, Mogondo, Kapsasian, and Ololmasani will determine who carries the mantle of the constituency's first-ever leadership transition.
