A political showdown is unfolding in Emurua Dikirr as allies of President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua clash in a high-stakes by-election seen as a test of influence within the ruling coalition.
The contest has attracted five candidates, with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) seeking to reclaim the seat amid stiff competition from the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), associated with Gachagua.
Smaller parties including PNU, NVP and RLP have also fielded candidates, adding to the intensity of the race.
UDA enters the by-election with momentum, having won five of the last eight parliamentary by-elections, while its coalition partner ODM secured the remaining three.
However, analysts note that Emurua Dikirr presents a unique battleground, given emerging political realignments and local dynamics.
The seat fell vacant following the death of area MP Johana Ng’eno in a helicopter crash earlier this year.
Among the notable contenders is David Keter, who previously lost the UDA nomination narrowly, and Vincent Rotich of DCP, who is riding on recent gains after a ward-level victory in Narok Town.
With over 44,000 registered voters, the outcome is expected to signal the shifting balance of power between Ruto’s camp and Gachagua’s growing political base.
Both sides have intensified grassroots campaigns, framing the election as a referendum on leadership and loyalty.
Meanwhile, a new report by the Social Health Authority (SHA) has raised alarm over the state of healthcare in the country, highlighting the burden of disease and rising treatment costs for Kenyans.
The report shows that respiratory infections account for the highest number of claims, followed by digestive and infectious diseases.
However, chronic conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and maternal health complications consume the largest share of healthcare spending.
SHA Chief Executive Officer Dr Mercy Mwangangi noted that while many Kenyans seek treatment for common illnesses, long-term conditions are driving up costs due to the need for specialized care and prolonged treatment.
The findings come amid ongoing reforms in the health sector, with the government under pressure to improve access, affordability and efficiency in service delivery.