A decade after leaving office, several of Kenya's pioneer governors are preparing political comebacks as the country gears up for the 2027 General Election.
The former county chiefs, who were first elected during the inaugural 2013 devolution polls, are seeking to reclaim their gubernatorial seats or secure legislative positions, hoping to leverage their experience and political networks to return to public office.
Among those leading the comeback trail is former Bomet Governor Isaac Rutto, currently the vice-chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission, who has openly declared his intention to retake the county's top seat. In Tana River, former Governor Hussein Dado has intensified his campaigns, promising to tackle insecurity and create employment opportunities for young people.
Former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero is also weighing a return to City Hall, setting the stage for a potentially competitive race against a new generation of political leaders. In Kiambu and Meru, political observers are closely watching William Kabogo and Peter Munya, both of whom remain influential figures with the potential to mount strong gubernatorial bids.
Elsewhere, former governors Jack Ranguma, Cleophas Lagat, and John Mruttu are exploring both gubernatorial and Senate races as they seek pathways back into leadership.
The anticipated exits of several second-term governors in 2027 have created political openings that former county bosses are keen to exploit. However, their return bids are expected to face stiff competition from younger politicians eager to shape the next chapter of county leadership.
As the campaign season gradually takes shape, the battle between experience and a new generation of leaders is emerging as one of the defining themes of the 2027 elections.
Source Attributed: Nation Newspaper