Kitui West MP Edith Nyenze’s grip on her constituency appears to be slipping, as a new opinion poll by the Ukambani Infortrack survey casts doubt on her prospects for re-election in the 2027 general election. The survey places Hon. Fredrick Kimanga, the current Kitui County CECM for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, as the frontrunner with a commanding 72% of the vote. Meanwhile, Nyenze languishes in third place with a mere 4.2%, trailing Hon. Vincent Munyoki, who garnered 19.43%, and ahead of CPA Ben Mbai and Hon. Benedict Muasya, each at 2%.
These results have sent ripples through Nyenze’s camp, signaling a potential end to her tenure after two consecutive terms. Her political ascent followed the untimely demise of her husband and former MP, Francis Nyenze, yet her administration now faces harsh scrutiny from disillusioned constituents.
For many in Kitui West, dissatisfaction has been brewing over what they see as stalled development and failed leadership under Nyenze. Residents cite crumbling infrastructure, such as impassable roads, as glaring indicators of neglect. Allegations of corruption in the management of the NG-CDF have only fueled frustrations. A damning report from last year spotlighted the constituency’s CDF manager, Mr. Ndonga, who allegedly admitted to mishandling funds with impunity, claiming in a WhatsApp group that the millions allocated for development is for tea and delicious meal for him and boss(Edith)
This perception of mismanagement has alienated many voters, leaving Nyenze vulnerable to political challengers like Kimanga, whose leadership and vision are being hailed as a breath of fresh air.
Hon. Fredrick Kimanga’s rising popularity in Kitui West stems from his reputation for effective governance. His tenure as CECM for Lands has earned him widespread praise for championing development and delivering results. Supporters view him as a credible alternative to Nyenze, someone capable of addressing the constituency’s long-standing issues with infrastructure and economic stagnation.
Although Kimanga has yet to formally declare his candidacy, his supporters are rallying behind him as the ideal leader to bring transformative change. “Kimanga represents hope for Kitui West,” said a local resident. “We need someone with a vision and the experience to deliver, and he fits the bill.”
The poll results have set the stage for a highly charged contest in Kitui West. With Kimanga emerging as the clear favorite and Nyenze struggling to regain her footing, the battle for the constituency’s future promises to be one of the most watched in Ukambani politics. Whether Edith Nyenze can mount a comeback or whether Fredrick Kimanga will capitalize on his momentum to usher in a new era of leadership remains to be seen. For now, the winds of change are unmistakable, and Kitui West appears ready to embrace a new direction.
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