Nyamira and neighbouring Kisii have long been regarded as Matiang’i’s political bastions. Any political misstep here would not only dent his presidential prospects but also cast doubts on his ability to rally his home turf behind a national bid. Observers argue that victories in the forthcoming by-elections will demonstrate his influence, while failure could be interpreted as an early sign of political fragility.
The Three Hotly Contested Wards
Nyamaiya Ward: The seat has remained vacant since 2023 following the tragic death of MCA Elijah Osiemo in a road accident. His younger brother, Chris Osiemo, is weighing whether to contest on a UPA or Jubilee Party ticket. President Ruto’s UDA is fronting Bonface Kegusu, while Thomas Nyandieka is yet to settle on a political vehicle. This race is already shaping up as a direct test of Matiang’i’s grip on UPA and Jubilee loyalists.
Nyansiongo Ward: Once held by Dennis Kebaso, whose election was nullified by the courts, the ward has attracted four aspirants: Kebaso himself, former MCA Jackson Mogusu (likely to contest under Jubilee, Matiang’i’s preferred party), Vincent Onsase, and Kevin Maranga. Here, Matiang’i’s ability to rally support for Mogusu is under scrutiny.
Ekerenyo Ward: The resignation of MCA Thaddeus Nyabero to contest for County Assembly Speaker left the seat open. Five candidates, Benard Onguso, Edward Machuki, Francis Amenya, Jeremiah Ongaro, and Shem Nyanumba, are already on the campaign trail. This ward is expected to witness one of the most unpredictable races.
A High-Stakes Political Gamble
Political analysts agree that the by-elections are not just about ward-level representation, they are a referendum on Matiang’i’s relevance ahead of 2027. Should his preferred candidates secure victory, Matiang’i will be able to present himself as a leader with a solid home base. However, defeat across the three wards could embolden his critics and weaken his bargaining power on the national stage.
Matiang’i is expected to align with the Jubilee Party, led by retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, under whose mentorship he rose to national prominence. However, the by-elections will not be a walkover. Other presidential hopefuls are also eyeing the seats as a chance to test their influence, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua (DCP), Kalonzo Musyoka (Wiper), and Moses Wetang’ula (Ford-K). Locally, Governor Amos Nyaribo’s UPA and President Ruto’s UDA are positioning candidates with equal determination.
As the campaigns gather momentum, all eyes will remain fixed on Nyamira. To Matiang’i, the three wards represent more than just local victories, they symbolise the foundation of his national dream. Win them, and he strengthens his claim to the 2027 presidency. Lose them, and his political journey could face an early derailment.
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