Gospel singer Justina Syokau, best known for her viral “Twendi Twendi” hits, has officially declared her candidacy for the Machakos County Women Representative seat in the upcoming 2027 General Elections.
Syokau joins a growing list of Kenyan celebrities pivoting toward politics, announcing her bid during a media interview on Thursday, January 15, 2025. She stated that her decision is driven by a deep-seated desire to serve the people of Machakos and expand her existing philanthropic work.
A Platform Built on Personal Struggle
Syokau highlighted her background as a source of her political motivation, sharing personal stories of hardship to illustrate her empathy for vulnerable constituents.
“Mimi nataka kukuwa Women Rep Machakos County… nimekuwa nikigive back kwa girl child initiative (I want to be the Machakos Women Rep… I have been giving back through girl child initiatives),” Syokau announced.
She opened up about her upbringing as an orphan and the poverty she faced, which she says will inform her leadership style.
“God allowed me to go through pain so that I wouldn’t let my people suffer the same. I am an orphan; I went to school without sanitary pads and had to use rags. I have dealt with many situations,” she shared.
The singer emphasized that her tenure would focus on educational empowerment for both boys and girls, while also creating systems to help parents support their children’s schooling more easily.
Request for Recognition and Party Choice
In an appeal to her supporters, Syokau urged voters to begin recognizing her new status immediately. “I ask people to hold my hand, and please, from now on, address me as ‘Mheshimiwa’ or ‘Women Rep of Machakos,’” she urged.
Regarding her political home, the singer confirmed she will be running on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket, throwing her full weight behind President William Ruto’s re-election campaign.
“Nko ndani ya UDA… atanimeimba Ruto tutam (I am inside UDA… I have even sung for Ruto),” she stated, affirming her loyalty to the ruling party.
By Ghafla