Elgeyo aspirants vie for Murkomen endorsement

Intense political manoeuvring has begun in Elgeyo Marakwet, with the battle for the governor’s seat and other elective positions already heating up nearly two years before the next general election.

The governorship, currently held by Wisley Rotich, has drawn a familiar cast of perennial contenders who are quietly and in some cases openly laying the groundwork for another showdown.

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has emerged as a central figure in the unfolding political equation. His experience, national stature and deep networks in the county have positioned him as a key influencer whose support is being aggressively courted.

Aspirants and sitting leaders alike have been jostling to catch Murkomen’s attention, especially at public events attended by the CS, signalling the weight his endorsement could carry in 2027.

Rotich, seeking a second term, is anchoring his campaign on his development record. He faces stiff competition from former Keiyo South MP Jackson Kiptanui and businessman Moses Changwony, both seasoned challengers with established grassroots networks.

“For now it’s time to serve our people. We will deal with politics when that time comes,” Rotich said, insisting he remains focused on service delivery.

His administration cites gains in healthcare, agriculture, education and security in parts of Kerio Valley. Locals credit him with stabilising the county’s health sector.

“We have fewer people travelling outside the county for treatment. Rotich has ensured our hospitals work better,” resident Paul Chebii said.

Kiptanui, meanwhile, is quietly rebuilding his political machinery. Many locals view him as Rotich’s strongest challenger.

“When elections come, we will be guided by the people of Elgeyo Marakwet,” he said.

Changwony, who is preparing for a third attempt at the governorship, has been reviving his networks on the ground. A respected private-sector figure, he previously served in senior corporate roles and remains a prominent business leader from the region.

Presidential security adviser Joseph Boinet, who lost to Rotich in 2022, has remained largely silent, leaving uncertainty about whether he will enter the race again.

Murkomen, the county’s former senator and now one of President William Ruto’s most trusted allies, remains the political heavyweight to watch. Though he has avoided overt involvement in local politics, few doubt his influence will shape the emerging alliances and outcomes.

Elected leaders and prospective aspirants have been aligning themselves close to the CS, a clear signal of the political calculations underway.

Elgeyo Marakwet’s political dynamics are also shaped by its two main communities, the Keiyo and the Marakwet, whose rivalry often plays out during contests for governor, senator and woman representative.

Although the Keiyo are numerically dominant, their tendency to field multiple candidates has historically given the Marakwet bloc an advantage.