Omtatah promises people-driven presidential campaign

Over the weekend, a delegation led by Mary Kathome, the chairperson of Omtatah’s presidential exploratory committee, engaged residents of Embu in a consultative forum aimed at documenting challenges affecting locals. The committee, Kathome revealed, has been traversing counties within Mt Kenya, gathering critical issues that will inform Omtatah’s campaign blueprint.

“The Mt Kenya region forms a significant percentage of Kenya’s economy and political landscape. It is vital to document what people feel has not been addressed by the current leadership so that Omtatah can prioritize these concerns in his manifesto,” said Kathome.

So far, the team has held meetings in Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, and Kiambu, with plans to cover all counties within the region. Among the most pressing concerns raised by residents are over-taxation, the high cost of healthcare, and unfulfilled political promises.

Duncan Onyango, a committee member, emphasized that Omtatah’s campaign will be shaped by grassroots input, positioning him as a leader who listens to the people. “Kenyans are suffering. We believe in a people-driven presidential bid, and that’s why no opinion will be locked out. Omtatah is a force to reckon with,” he stated.

Omtatah’s move to penetrate Mt Kenya comes at a time when the region’s political scene is undergoing a major realignment. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has been rallying the region under the "one-man, one-vote, one-shilling" economic model, seeking to cement his influence. The Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has been on the radar to consolidate votes in the Mt Kenya and bank them to his boss President Dr William Ruto.

By making inroads into Mt Kenya this early, Omtatah is positioning himself as a disruptor—one who does not belong to the traditional power structures of Kenya’s politics but has a reputation for standing with the people. His past as a fearless activist and his approach to governance, rooted in constitutionalism and accountability, make him a strategic wildcard.

According to the committee, Omtatah comes in as an independent voice. This could work to his advantage, especially among Mt Kenya residents who feel shortchanged by the current regime.

One of the locals in Embu, Ruri Polycarp, urged Omtatah to stay the course. “We have been betrayed before. If he truly listens to us, he has a chance to bring real change,” he said.

As 2027 draws closer, Omtatah’s strategic push into Mt Kenya will be a space to watch. If he succeeds in converting grassroots frustrations into political momentum, he could shake up the presidential race in ways many never anticipated.