Woman Rep Muge shakes up Nandi governor race

Nandi Woman Representative Cynthia Muge has stirred political excitement in the region after intensifying her campaign to succeed Governor Stephen Sang.

Sang is set to complete his term next year.

Once seen as a peripheral contender in the male-dominated political arena, the 32-year-old Muge has quickly become a focal point of debate. She is challenging established male politicians and drawing significant public attention.

“My interest in the governor’s seat is to completely redefine service to the people of Nandi and take the county to the next level in terms of how devolution can benefit our people,” Muge said.

Known for her powerful oratory skills in both the Nandi dialect and national languages, Muge has been holding large, high-profile political events. She has focused on her vision.

She has a notable political trajectory, having been elected as an MCA at 24. She later became one of the youngest MPs in the National Assembly.

Local political analyst Kibet Bowen describes Muge as “a woman to watch” in Nandi politics. Residents have noted her potential to become the county’s first female governor.

The governor’s race has attracted seasoned politicians, professionals and wealthy investors, underlining Nandi’s political significance and the high stakes involved.

Dr Zaccius Rop and Engineer Anderson Serem are in the contest, emphasising service-oriented leadership.

Rop, through his Hokil Foundation, has supported thousands of students and invested in youth employment through digital training centres.

Tinderet MP Julius Melly is leveraging his political experience and local networks after serving three terms in the National Assembly.

Businessman David Lagat’s potential entry, though still unconfirmed, could bring financial influence to the race. This reflects a broader trend of private-sector figures shaping county politics.

Finance expert Antipas Tirop is also contesting, promising prudent resource management to drive development.

“Nandi now needs someone with the necessary capacity to properly use the resources available to transform the lives of residents, and I am the one with that ability,” Tirop said.