The battle for the Nairobi County Women Representative seat is heating up fast especially after incumbent, Esther Passaris, withdrew herself early from the race insisting that she won’t be defending the seat in the 2027 General Election.
Passaris, who has served two full terms, said the seat was created under the 2010 Constitution to boost women’s representation and that it is time for another woman to take over.
Her exit has triggered intense competition. Several women leaders have already declared interest, launching projects in different parts of Nairobi while others have put up billboards to build public visibility.
Party strategies and coalition negotiations are also quietly shaping the contest, given Nairobi’s importance as a political battleground.
Among the leading contenders are;
1. Nominated senators Karen Nyamu
2. Nominated senator Tabitha Mutinda
3. Former nominated senator Milicent Omanga
4. Former Nairobi governor Ann Kananu
5. Activist Hanifa Adan
6. Digital activist Pauline Njoroge
7. Outspoken journalist and blogger Scophine Aoko Otieno, popularly known as Maverick Aoko.
Political analyst Martins Oloo says Nairobi’s influence explains the rush for the seat, though he argues that the position has drifted from its original mission of championing women’s rights.
Candidates, however, insist their focus is on housing, jobs, security, and youth empowerment. Nyamu, who previously vied for the seat, is considered a strong frontrunner.
Njoroge says Nairobi needs new leadership ideas. Mutinda has officially launched her campaign, highlighting her Wezesha Mama program that has supported women groups across all 17 sub-counties.
With two years to go, the seven have enough time to convince voters on why they are the best suited for the job.
By PeopleDaily