Former Nyandarua Governor Francis Kimemia has joined the Democratic Citizens Party, sparking a complex political battle in Nyandarua. This move comes after his defeat in the 2022 elections, partly due to a fallout with former Cabinet Secretary Sicily Kariuki. Kimemia and Kariuki had held parallel campaigns for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, leading to Kariuki's denial of the Jubilee Party ticket in favor of Kimemia.
Governor Badilisha Kiarie, who defeated Kimemia in the 2022 General Election, had previously defected to the Democratic Citizens Party three months ago from President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance. Kariuki, who is eyeing the gubernatorial seat, also crossed from Jubilee to DCP earlier. Other contenders for the county's top seat include lawyers John Theuri and Nderi Ndiani.
Kimemia stated that he joined DCP after listening to the people on the ground, who preferred the party. He aims to recapture his former position as Nyandarua Governor and complete the projects he initiated. Kimemia's move to DCP pits him against former allies-turned-rivals in Jubilee, DCP, and UDA. His entry into DCP may split the voting block of other candidates, including Governor Badilisha and Kariuki.
Political analysts believe Governor Badilisha's bid to become the first two-term governor depends on navigating the DCP nominations. Former Nyahururu Mayor Peter Waweru Thiari thinks that Governor Badilisha has maintained his popularity and needs to retain his block against raids from opponents. Thiari notes that Nyandarua has enjoyed some semblance of peace over the past four years under Governor Badilisha's administration.
Businessman and political analyst Maina Ngugi believes Kimemia's decision to join DCP might not add value to his comeback bid, given that he will be surrounded by former political enemies. However, Ngugi thinks that Governor Badilisha has the advantage of a sound development program he has rolled out. The candidates' choice of running mates is likely to influence both the party nominations and the 2027 General Election.
Kimemia's comeback bid is also disadvantaged by the loss of several political heavyweights, including former members of his county executive, who are now working with his opponents. He dismissed claims of bad blood between him and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, saying they had worked together as district officers during the Moi regime. Nyandarua Woman Representative Faith Gitau is eyeing the UDA ticket ahead of the August 10, 2027 General Election.
The unfolding political realignments in Nyandarua have set the stage for a battle of political titans in the region. With party nominations expected by May next year, the contenders are positioning themselves for the 2027 General Election. Kimemia's move to DCP has added a new layer of complexity to the already heated race for the Nyandarua gubernatorial seat.
Key points
- Kimemia's defection to DCP opens a new political battleground in Nyandarua.
- Governor Badilisha's bid for a second term depends on navigating DCP nominations.
- Kimemia's comeback bid faces challenges, including loss of political heavyweights and a crowded field.
