Is Aaron Cheruiyot's rise driven by merit or proximity to the right people?

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot during a funds drive to empower mama mboga, boda boda group and youths in Kiambaa constituency, on April 23, 2025. [File, Standard]

It has been almost 10 years since Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot entered the political arena.

Initially, both Cheruiyot and his rivals viewed his entry as a risky gamble, especially since he was running against established political figures in the South Rift region.

However, fresh from university, Cheruiyot successfully defeated seasoned politician Paul Sang in a highly charged senatorial by-election.

Following the appointment of Kericho Senator Charles Keter as the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Cheruiyot was left to fill significant shoes in the political landscape.

He has since emerged as a key player, serving as the Majority Leader in the Senate and becoming an influential figure close to President Ruto in South Rift politics.

Throughout his three terms in the Senate, Cheruiyot has been a member of key committees, including Finance and Budget, Energy, Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations, and ICT.

He has sponsored several important bills, such as the Sports (Amendment) Bill of 2021, the Persons with Disability (Amendment) Bill of 2020, and the County Government (Amendment) Bill of 2018.

In addition to his legislative work, Cheruiyot served as a commissioner in the Parliamentary Service Commission, where he chaired the Staff Welfare Committee and was a member of both the Members’ Welfare and Security and Development committees.

Outside of the chamber, he also Bunge FC captain.

Renowned for his sharp wit and eloquence, Cheruiyot has established himself as a respected debater in the Senate, with his contributions frequently capturing the attention of the Speaker.

In 2023, he made history by becoming the youngest Senate Majority Leader.

As Cheruiyot continues to gain popularity among the people of Kericho and beyond, he is increasingly seen as a significant player in national politics — perhaps even a future political kingpin.

His growing national presence is marked by touring various counties to promote his agenda and rally support for President William Ruto and the ruling party.

Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot. [File, Standard]

His rising profile has sparked mixed reactions among key leaders, some of whom view him as a natural successor and a potential heir to Ruto’s political legacy.

Deputy President Kindiki Kithure recently remarked on Cheruiyot’s promising future, saying, “I spent eight days campaigning for Cheruiyot in 2015, and I am proud to say that the people of Kericho made a worthy gamble in choosing a national leader.”

Hillary Koskei, Kipkelion West MP, described Cheruiyot as the key leader of the Kipsigis community, stating, “He is our foremost Kipsigis leader in national politics.

‘‘Even during Parliamentary Group meetings, Cheruiyot speaks on our behalf.”

Baringo North MP, Joseph Makilap, referred Cheruiyot as the “total man” in Ruto’s government, saying, “He is my son… a good man. Leave the petty issues. Honour this young man.” Nominated MP Jackson Kosgei echoed similar sentiments.

Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, speaking in Elgeyo Marakwet, emphasised the Kalenjin community’s capabilities under Cheruiyot’s leadership: “Aaron is our leader, and he’s like an elephant.

‘‘We are optimistic about the future. This young man is our leader and my boss in the Senate.”