Dr Zaccius Kiplimo Rop speaking during an education mentorship forum in Nandi County/HANDOUT
Nandi County is already heating up politically, as the race to succeed Governor Stephen Sang, who is completing his second term, gathers momentum.
With nearly two years until the 2027 polls, the contest is attracting a mix of seasoned politicians, professionals and wealthy investors, highlighting both the country’s political significance and the stakes involved.
Dr Zaccius Rop and Engineer Anderson Serem have formally joined the race, bringing credentials and professional experience that could appeal to voters seeking service-oriented leadership.
Rop, through his Hokil Foundation, has supported thousands of students and is investing in youth employment via digital training centres, projecting the image of a candidate capable of translating private-sector expertise into public service.
Women's representative Cynthia Muge and Tinderet MP Julius Melly are leveraging their political experience and local networks to consolidate support.
Businessman David Lagat’s potential entry, although unconfirmed, adds a financial and strategic dimension to the contest, reflecting a broader trend of business figures increasingly influencing county politics.
The crowded field underscores Nandi’s role as a UDA stronghold, with internal party dynamics likely to shape both the nomination process and the general election.
Sang remains focused on completing his legacy projects and supporting President William Ruto’s re-election, but his influence may still sway the trajectory of the succession battle.
Notably, high-profile residents like Head of Public Service Felix Koskei are also expected to play influential roles, either as backers or potential candidates, reflecting the complex interplay of politics, development and personal ambition in the county.
The unfolding contest illustrates how local politics is increasingly shaped by a combination of developmental credentials, political networks and financial influence.
Instant analysis
Nandi’s early political manoeuvring reflects growing intensity in the succession race as Governor Stephen Sang enters his final stretch in office. The widening field—spanning seasoned politicians, wealthy business figures and technocrats—signals a highly competitive 2027 contest. Dr Rop’s entry, backed by his foundation’s youth and education initiatives, adds a service-oriented dimension to the race, while Cynthia Muge’s appeal among youth and women strengthens her grassroots reach. The uncertainty surrounding prominent figures like David Lagat, Allan Kosgey and Senator Cherargei keeps the field fluid. With Nandi a UDA stronghold, internal party dynamics will heavily shape the eventual outcome.
