Young politicians seek to oust old guard, vow to bring development

Former Students Organisation of University of Nairobi (Sonu) Vice President Edith Mwirigi who plans to run for Meru Woman Representative in this year's general election. [Courtesy]

Young aspirants have thrown their hats in the ring as the August 9 elections approach.

Seemingly inspired by the political exploits of former Buuri MP Gatobu Kinoti who won the seat aged 23 in 2013 and who is now a director in the Presidential Delivery Unity, many young contestants are eyeing various elective positions. Igembe South MP John Paul Mwirigi who won the seat in 2017 aged 23 is also a source of inspiration.

Leading the brigade is Edith Mwirigi, 31, who graduated from the University of Nairobi in 2015.

Edith was in high spirits as she announced her bid for the Woman Rep seat.

She said it was time for her as a visionary leader to be given the opportunity to bring positive change to the community.

"I am passionate about leadership. It runs in my blood," Edith said.

She said her aim is to inspire women.

"Having served in the student leadership of UoN for four years, I understand the importance of leadership and its influence in changing lives. I am vying as woman rep to inspire a generation of not only young women but a whole young generation," Mwirigi stated.

“I present my candidature in the race for Meru woman representative. To the great people of Meru, the journey has just begun,” said Mwirigi.

She holds a Master in Business Administration (strategic management) and bachelor's degree in civil engineering.

Seasoned politician

Mwangi Kinjuri’s The Service Party (TSP) welcomed yet another youth in Harrison Muthamia, 26, who is going for Igembe Central parliamentary seat against Kubai Kiringo, a seasoned politician.

Muthamia together with Nicholas Mutethia (also 26) of Governor Kiraitu Murungi’s Devolution Empowerment Party are among candidates seeking to unseat Kiringo.

Muthamia graduated from Kenyatta University with a Bachelor of Education last year, and after a bit of teaching practice, wants to do more for community.

Kenya University Students Organisation President Anthony Manyara, 27, is running for senator, a seat currently held by Mithika Linturi. The senator (Linturi) is eyeing a third term.

Manyara who studied Architecture and graduated from UoN in 2019 is currently pursuing a Law degree at the same institution.

“I want to ensure the resources allocated to the county are utilised properly for development and that the oversight role is performed well. This is in addition to ensuring that miraa is not used as a political tool season in season out,” he noted.

Salesio Thuranira, known in Meru as ‘Okiya Omtatah’ due to his numerous court petitions against the county government and others on issues of citizen interests, is also running for a senatorial seat.

Thuranira said having been involved in defending the interests of various groups and individuals in court, including sacked casual workers, he wants to head to the Senate, which is a better platform.

He plans to run on a Chama Cha Kazi ticket.

“I feel comfortable in CCK because of its ideologies and support of the youth, women and vulnerable groups,” Thuranira said.