Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has stated that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) must secure the Nairobi Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Election. She emphasized the party's strong grassroots presence and its significant representation in the Nairobi County Assembly, with approximately 31 elected and nominated MCAs. According to Nyamu, this numerical strength reflects UDA's considerable influence in the capital city.
Nyamu, who has expressed interest in the Woman Representative position, pointed to UDA's record of development in Nairobi as a key factor supporting her bid. In a media interview on Thursday, November 5, 2026, she highlighted the party's achievements in the city, stating, "UDA is a party that has delivered in Nairobi. Every other thing you see that has been achieved in Nairobi has been done under a UDA government." This, she believes, demonstrates the party's capability to drive progress in the city.
Nyamu also defended her record as a nominated senator, citing her legislative contributions, community engagement, and participation in fundraising initiatives. She argued that her experience, combined with UDA's presence in Nairobi, makes her a strong contender for the Woman Representative seat. Her ambitions, however, may put her in competition with incumbent Esther Passaris, who won the seat on an ODM ticket in previous elections.
The possibility of a 2027 showdown between Nyamu and Passaris is significant, given the broad-based political arrangement between UDA and ODM. Nyamu acknowledged that the parties would need to negotiate how to share elective positions, rather than fielding rival candidates. She emphasized that the parties would not have two candidates competing against each other, citing the example of the governor and senator positions.
When asked whether negotiations could lead to either her or Passaris dropping their ambitions, Nyamu replied, "Definitely, 100 percent." She suggested that the proposed political arrangement could give UDA the Nairobi Woman Representative seat, pointing to the possible alignment of Governor Johnson Sakaja and Lang'ata MP Phelix Odiwuor within the broad-based political framework.
Nyamu's confidence in securing the seat stems from UDA's continued presence in Nairobi. She argued that the party's influence in the city should secure its place in the coalition's lineup. This development could have significant implications for the 2027 elections, particularly in Nairobi, where UDA and ODM have traditionally had a strong presence.
As the 2027 General Election approaches, Nyamu's bid for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat is likely to be closely watched. Her negotiations with ODM and other stakeholders will be crucial in determining the final lineup of candidates for the election. With her legislative record and UDA's grassroots presence, Nyamu appears to be a strong contender for the seat, but the outcome remains uncertain.
Key points
- Nyamu cites UDA's grassroots presence and her legislative record as key factors supporting her bid for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat.
