The upcoming parliamentary by-election in Emurua Dikirr is shaping up to be more than a routine political contest, with allies of the late MP Johana Ngeno warning that the vote will determine the future of the constituency’s political legacy.
Bernard Ngeno, one of the personal assistants who worked closely with the late lawmaker, said the race carries wider political significance and will be fiercely defended by those who stood with the former MP.
Speaking ahead of the anticipated by-election, Bernard said the contest will not only be about electing a new representative but about safeguarding the political ideals left behind by Johana Ngeno.
“The by-election will not be about Emurua Dikirr alone. Much is at stake,” he said, suggesting that political rivals are preparing to challenge the influence the late MP built over the years.
Bernard accused unnamed opponents of planning to use financial influence to sway voters in the constituency.
He claimed some individuals were allegedly organizing in Nairobi hotels with the intention of pouring money into the by-election campaign to divide the local electorate.
However, he maintained that the people of Emurua Dikirr are politically aware and would not easily be swayed by financial inducements.
“You may look at us as orphans, but we grew up a long time ago and we are now parents ourselves. No amount of money can blur the vision of our destiny,” he said.
According to Bernard, supporters of the late MP are determined to defend the political legacy he left behind despite his passing.
“We lost the person, but the legacy and the politics remain. We will, at all costs, protect them,” he added.
He also called on local political allies, including Kipkirui Sawe and Gen Tembur Farouk Naroronkuk, as well as supporters in what he referred to as the “Nyangulo Republic,” to remain united as preparations for the by-election intensify.
At the same time, Bernard condemned what he described as attacks against Nayanoi Ngeno, whom he referred to as the constituency’s “first lady.”
He urged supporters of the late MP to stand together and avoid internal divisions as the political battle ahead approaches.
The Emurua Dikirr parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of MP Johana Ngeno, triggering a by-election that is expected to attract significant political attention in Narok County.