Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga Sets Sights on Senate Seat in 2027

By James Murimi - Reporter

Kenya, 11 April 2026 - Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has declared his bid for the Nyeri senatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, setting the stage for a high-stakes political contest in the vote-rich county.

Speaking during a public function in Nyeri on Saturday, Kahiga said his decision followed extensive consultations with residents, whom he said had urged him to seek a legislative role.

“The people have told me the senatorial seat is not a bad one. After listening attentively to the people of Nyeri, they have asked me to go to the Senate so that I can fetch enough resources for counties and oversee devolved units,” he said.

The governor cited his track record in office as proof of his readiness for the role.

“You know very well I was ranked among the best-performing governors in Kenya. That tells you I understand how to do my job. I will be able to rectify governors whenever they go astray in matters of accountability,” Kahiga added, as he sought backing from the electorate.

Kahiga, who is serving his second and final term after his re-election in 2022 on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, rose to the governorship following the death of his boss, Dr Wahome Gakuru.

Gakuru, Nyeri’s third governor, died in a road accident on November 7, 2017, at Makenji in Kabati, Murang’a County, just months after assuming office.

Kahiga had been elected as his deputy in the August 8, 2017 General Election under the Jubilee Party.

The Nyeri Senate seat is currently held by Wahome Wamatinga, who has declared interest in the governorship, potentially opening the field for Kahiga.

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Kahiga’s political positioning has, however, drawn attention in recent months.

Following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, the governor emerged as a vocal critic of President William Ruto.

For a period, he was perceived to be straddling the divide between the President’s camp and that of Gachagua, who now leads the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).

However, recent political signals suggest Kahiga may be recalibrating his stance, with observers noting a gradual warming towards President Ruto’s camp ahead of the 2027 polls.

His Senate bid now adds a new dimension to Nyeri’s evolving political landscape, with alliances and rivalries expected to shape the race in the coming months.