STORY By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT
In a dramatic twist that could reshape Embu’s political landscape, a section of youthful leaders (Bus Party Ambassadors) under the Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), popularly known as the 'Bus' party, have thrown their weight behind former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti for the 2027 gubernatorial race. This endorsement, made during the launch of the group’s work plan, is being seen as a major political statement—one that signals a growing generational shift and the desire for fresh, transformative leadership in Embu County.
Led by Mr Nicholas Kasanga, the Deputy Executive Director of DEP, the youth group declared Kivuti their preferred candidate, citing his leadership credentials and vision for Embu. "We believe the time has come to inject new energy into Embu’s leadership. We want a leader who prioritizes development, and Kivuti is the best bet," Kasanga stated.
The group, structured with a clear leadership hierarchy—including Esther Wanjiru as Secretary, Charles Nyamai as Treasurer, and Hildah Nyaga and Lawrence Mutugi as Communication Directors—is determined to rally more youth into active political participation. "We are not just spectators in this county’s leadership. We are stakeholders in its future," Kasanga added.
Kivuti, a seasoned political figure with a history of close gubernatorial contests, is gearing up for what could be an explosive rematch against the incumbent, Governor Cecily Mbarire.
In the hotly contested 2022 elections, Mbarire narrowly edged him out with 108,610 votes against Kivuti’s 105,246—a difference of just over 3,000 votes. The former senator had also fallen short in 2017 against then-Governor Martin Wambora.
With this latest show of support, Kivuti appears to be laying the groundwork for a serious comeback. But will this youthful endorsement be the game-changer he needs to finally clinch the seat?
The Devolution Empowerment Party, championed by figures such as former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi, has been pushing for policies that enhance grassroots empowerment. The youth-driven endorsement aligns with DEP’s broader agenda of ensuring counties receive better resource allocation and governance structures that prioritize citizens' needs.
For Kivuti, this endorsement isn’t just about support—it’s a strategic alignment with the growing clout of young, politically active voters who are increasingly shaping electoral outcomes across the country.
As 2027 draws closer, Embu’s political scene is likely to witness intense political maneuvering. Will Kivuti leverage this new support to mount a formidable challenge against Mbarire? Or will the incumbent, backed by the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), outmaneuver him?
What’s clear is that the Millennials and Gen Z vote is emerging as a critical force in Embu politics. If this momentum continues, the upcoming elections could be decided not just by party alliances, but by the voices of young leaders demanding a seat at the table.
MWINGI TIMES for timely and authoritative news.
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