As Ol Kalou voters head to the polls to elect their new MP, the hotly contested by-election is being viewed as a crucial litmus test that could shape the political direction of the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election. Political analyst Oscar Obonyo says President William Ruto's intensive and costly campaign was aimed at ensuring he retains Mt Kenya as a key political stronghold while sending a clear message to the rest of the country that he still enjoys significant support in the region.

OSCAR OBONYO - OLKALOU