Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua has formally announced his intention to contest the Kitui gubernatorial seat in the 2027 general election. The declaration was made on Saturday during a well-attended ceremony at Kyondoni Primary School in Kitui West subcounty, making him the first aspirant to publicly formalise his candidature.
Addressing a cheering crowd, Wambua described the day as a moment to “set the record straight” and reaffirm his commitment to the people of Kitui. He was joined by key political figures, including ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna and leaders from the Wiper Democratic Front, his party, which has pledged full backing for his bid.
“I have decided to seek the support of the people of Kitui County in the next general election to be held on August 10, 2027, to serve you as your governor,” Wambua declared.
The senator cited his track record as a two-term legislator, with various polls ranking him among the top-performing senators in the country. He also highlighted his leadership credentials, including serving as Deputy Minority Leader in the Senate, as evidence of his capability to lead the county.
Wambua used the occasion to address political rivalry in the county, accusing some leaders of spreading falsehoods about his leadership to mislead voters for personal gain. He vowed to maintain focus on his current senatorial duties despite his gubernatorial ambitions.
“Those in positions of leadership should work. It is two years to the polls. They should not claim they failed because they were undermined by me. Let them serve their mandate,” he said.
While the Saturday event attracted considerable political attention, Wambua stressed it was not an official campaign launch but merely a statement of intent. He revealed that his formal campaign would begin exactly a year before the election, on August 10, 2026.
The Kitui gubernatorial race is shaping up to be highly competitive, with other interested candidates including former Governor Charity Ngilu, Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu, Kitui Woman Representative Irene Kasalu, and Safaricom executive Nicholas Mulila.
With his early declaration, Wambua has set the stage for what promises to be an intense political contest in Kitui.
