This archive report was first published on 10 June 2020.
Nyamira County has a history of electing MPs who serve only one term, with North Mugirango and Kitutu Masaba constituencies being the most notable examples. This trend has been observed for the past 20 years, with voters in these constituencies rejecting their MPs after five years, regardless of their performance.
As the 2022 general elections approach, the five MPs from Nyamira County are facing stiff competition from a large number of aspirants. The MPs are Ben Momanyi (Borabu), Vincent Kemosi (West Mugirango), Shadarak Mose (Kitutu Masaba), Joash Nyamoko (North Mugirango), and Jerusa Momanyi (women rep).
Kitutu Masaba constituency, in particular, has a reputation for replacing its MP every five years. Shadarak Mose, who was elected on the Jubilee ticket, is facing opposition from several candidates, including Victor Swanya, who has a foundation that has aided students from the area to pursue higher education. Swanya has continued to make himself present in the constituency, assisting the less fortunate and has gained popularity.
West Mugirango constituency is also expected to witness a fierce competition, with several aspirants vying for the seat. Vincent Kemosi, the current MP, cannot be underrated, as his Bogichora clan has vowed to give him another term due to his good performance in terms of development.
In Borabu constituency, over eight people have declared their candidature to replace Ben Momanyi, who has announced his intention to run for the gubernatorial seat. Voters from Borabu have expressed their willingness to consider the candidature of Patrick Osero, who has been patient enough after losing the seat three times.
North Mugirango constituency is also witnessing a fierce competition, with a woman, Janet Ondieki, a lecturer at Moi University, vowing to set a history for being the first woman from the constituency to aspire for the position and win it with a landslide.
Jerusa Momanyi, the incumbent women rep, is facing opposition from two candidates, Wilkister Morara and Josephine Omanwa. A titanic battle is expected between Morara and Omanwa, with Morara having set up a network that is making inroads in all parts of the county.
