Kitui Governor Julius Malombe has declared his intention to run for the county senatorial seat in the 2027 elections. His term as governor ends in 2027, and he says he is responding to calls from residents to continue serving. Malombe made the announcement at a public rally in Imwange during a development tour of Kitui South subcounty on Friday.
Malombe's decision to pursue the Senate seat means he will face competition from other aspirants, including county assembly speaker Kevin Katisya and agriculture executive Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, who had previously declared their interest in the seat. Mwingi-based education investor Muinde Mutukaa is also eyeing the position. Current Senator Enoch Wambua is reportedly interested in the governorship.
Mutukaa, associated with Charity Ngilu's Narc party, will be making a second attempt at the seat after losing to Wambua in the 2022 election. Malombe disclosed that he had received five appeals from Kitui residents, urging him to seek the Wiper Patriotic Front Party ticket for the Senate seat. The party had set a deadline for registration of candidates, which has since been pushed to November 3.
Malombe emphasized that Kitui residents have expressed a desire for him to continue serving them beyond his tenure as governor. He stressed the need for effective leadership and proper oversight to ensure that residents receive the services and development they deserve. Without naming anyone, Malombe criticized previous leadership, stating that there was a period when little development took place in Kitui county.
The governor highlighted the importance of a leader who can provide proper oversight as a senator to keep a wayward leader in check. He appeared to refer to a previous county administration, stating that there was a need for a leader who can ensure development projects are undertaken. Malombe assured residents that he will not hesitate to respond to calls regarding his next political move.
Malombe's entry into the Senate race is seen as a significant development in Kitui politics. His decision to run for the Senate seat comes after he was urged by residents to continue serving. The governor's move is likely to shape the county's political landscape in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
The 2027 elections are expected to be highly competitive, with various leaders vying for different positions. Malombe's decision to run for the Senate seat adds to the growing list of aspirants. The Wiper Party's decision to extend the deadline for registration of candidates has given more time for aspirants to make their intentions known.
Key points
- Kitui Governor Julius Malombe to run for Kitui Senate seat in 2027 elections
- Malombe faces competition from other aspirants, including county assembly speaker Kevin Katisya and Mwingi-based education investor Muinde Mutukaa
- Malombe's decision to run for Senate seat comes after residents urged him to continue serving beyond his tenure as governor
