The political battle for Emurua Dikirr constituency has intensified as the ruling United Democratic Alliance and the Democracy for Citizens Party square it out ahead of the May 14 by-election.

The seat fell vacant following the tragic death of MP Johana Ngeno, who perished alongside five others in a helicopter crash on February 28 at Chepkiep village in Nandi county.

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UDA has fronted David Keter as its candidate, while DCP has endorsed former Mogondo MCA Vincent Rotich.

The two main contenders have stepped up their campaigns after receiving their nomination certificates from the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission last week, setting the stage for a high-stakes political showdown.

Keterhas pledged to unite the constituency, including supporters of Ngeno, with whom he previously had intense political rivalry.

He unsuccessfully contested against Ngeno three times but now says the moment calls for reconciliation and development.

“I am ready to unite all the people of Emurua Dikirr, including those who have opposed me for years,” Keter said during a campaign rally.

“Leadership is about service. I will continue with the projects and vision that Ngeno had started.”

He emphasised continuity of development under the Kenya Kwanza administration, arguing that working closely with the national government will accelerate service delivery in the constituency.

On the other hand, Rotich has urged voters to elect him, arguing that constituencies benefit more when represented by leaders who can boldly challenge the government.

He said he had worked closely with Ngeno and understands the needs of the constituency.

“When you are in opposition, the government is compelled to bring development so as to win the people’s support. That is when resources flow,” Rotich told residents.

He said he has the experience and grassroots connection required to steer Emurua Dikirr forward.

The by-election is widely seen as a political contest between President William Ruto, the leader of UDA, and his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua, who now heads DCP.

While unveiling Rotich at the DCP headquarters, the former DP appealed to Emurua Dikirr voters to support his candidate, claiming that the Kipsigis community, which forms the majority in the Kalenjin community, has been sidelined in development since the Kenya Kwanza government took office.

Political observers say the outcome will not only determine the constituency’s representation but also signal shifting political loyalties in the larger Rift Valley region.

Rivalry between the two is expected to be intense, and analysts say the DCP candidate may give the UDA a run for its money.

The seat is in Ruto’s political backyard of Rift Valley and he is expected to visit the constituency for UDA campaigns.