Sandra Mbuvi, the youngest daughter of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, has confirmed she will contest the Member of County Assembly seat for Karura Ward in Westlands during the 2027 General Election.
The 23-year-old, who is studying journalism and broadcasting at the University of Brighton in the UK, made the announcement on social media on Saturday, 26 September.
She said she would run under her father's party, the National Economic Development Party (NEDP).
A Change of Ward
Sandra's political plans are not entirely new. She had earlier been eyeing the Kitusuru Ward seat, where long-serving MCA Alvin Palapala has held office since 2013.
She has now shifted focus to Karura instead.
"Having previously considered Kitusuru Ward, I have now shifted my focus to Karura Ward, where I look forward to engaging with residents, listening to their priorities and understanding the issues affecting our communities," she wrote.
Explaining her intentions further, she added:
"I am officially announcing my intention to run for MCA, Karura Ward, Westlands, in the 2027 General Election, under the National Economic Development Party (NEDP)."
Her Priorities
Sandra outlined a campaign built around several themes common to first-time aspirants: women's empowerment, youth opportunities, education, healthcare, accountability and inclusive development.
She framed her approach around listening rather than lecturing.
"I believe leadership begins with listening, serving and being accountable to the people. This is the beginning of a new journey, and I look forward to connecting with the people of Karura Ward," she said.
Mixed Reception Online
The announcement split opinion, as is often the case with political declarations from Kenya's high-profile families.
Some commenters were dismissive. User @manuh_el_254 asked bluntly, "Do you think politics is a joke?"
@jay_.y: "Youth Empowerment."
Others were more welcoming. @ronak.mistry wrote, "Best of luck. We are in the same constituency," and @am_njeri001 joked about receiving "free lip gloss."
Family Political Track Record
Sandra is not the first of Mike Sonko's children to flirt with elected office. Her elder sister, Saumu Mbuvi, has previously spoken publicly about pressure to run for an MCA seat of her own.
Whether Sandra's Karura bid translates into a formal candidacy will become clearer as the 2027 election cycle progresses and party primaries take shape.
