Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has declared his intention to contest the Nyeri senatorial seat in the upcoming 2027 election.
Mutahi has stated that his declaration follows extensive consultations with residents who encouraged him to seek a legislative role.
Speaking at a public function in Nyeri, he added that the Senate position would enable him to secure resources for counties and strengthen oversight of devolved units.
“And I would like to state here that those talking about the senator seat are correct and the seat is good, and after listening to the residents of Nyeri advising that I should go to the senate and pave the way for governors to acquire funds for the public and be a gatekeeper,” Mutahi stated.
In addition, the governor mentioned that the senatorial seat would suit him, given that he has been ranked the best-performing governor in Kenya.
Mutahi urged the public to offer him the support for his bid to ensure that he will fulfill his role and guide others during his governance as the senator in Nyeri.
Nyeri Politics
Currently, the senate seat is held by Wahome Wamatangi, who was elected in 2022 on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.
As Mutahi eyes the senate seat, Wahome Wamatangi has expressed interest in the governor’s seat in the 2027 election.
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In a poll by Infotrak, Murang’a, Homa Bay, Trans Nzoia, Kirinyaga, and Nyeri were ranked among Kenya’s best-performing counties.
Nyeri County ranked 5th overall among counties, with Governor Mutahi Kahiga named the 8th best-performing governor overall according to the Infotrak CountyTrak Performance Index 2024, released in February 2025.
Top spots went to governors, including Irungu Kang’ata of Murang’a, Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay, and George Natembeya of Trans Nzoia.
Governor Kahiga Performance
During Mutahi’s time as governor, Nyeri experienced development in the Agriculture, Livestock, and Aquaculture sectors.
Coffee production increased from 23.1 million kg between 2017 and 2018 to 33.2 million kg valued at approximately Ksh 3.9 billion.
In addition, 39 coffee factories were rehabilitated at a cost of Ksh 101.2 million, and 20,000 seedlings, 720 tons of manure, and 151 sprayers were distributed to youth.
Avocado acreage grew from 272 ha to 1,800 ha while tea production peaked at 23.2 million kg green leaf.
Also Read: Governor Kahiga Declares Loyalty as Ruto Strengthens UDA Base in Nyeri
On infrastructure and road development, Mutahi contributed to significant investment in rural roads and the development of modern bus stops, including Muthoni Kirima in Nyeri town, with 240+ bays, funded by KUSP and valued at Ksh 236 million.
Additionally, the governor contributed to the operationalization of the flagship project at the Naromoru Level 4 Hospital, with a 175-bed capacity.
The governor has been ranked among the top in the County Competitive Index and the World Bank Devolution Support Program, and has received a KSh 184 million performance reward.
