Journalist Faith Wamalwa Sudi (Imani Baha). Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Reporter
Journalist Faith Sudi Wamalwa, popularly known as Imani Baha, has announced her bid to contest the Webuye West parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election against incumbent MP Dan Wanyama.
Ms Wamalwa, who has worked with Nation Media Group (NMG) and the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), says her decision to enter politics is driven by a desire to promote leadership that puts the interests of ordinary citizens at the centre of governance.
She says her political agenda will be anchored in the Constitution, the rule of law, human rights and social justice.
“My desire for this seat is driven by a deep conviction, to uphold the rule of law and the Constitution in serving our people. I call on you to walk with me as I look towards making this vision a reality,” Wamalwa said in an exclusive interview with Newsflash.
A call for new leadership
Wamalwa says Kenya is experiencing a growing demand for a new generation of leaders who are accountable to citizens and committed to constitutional principles.
“A wind of change is blowing across Kenya,” she said, arguing that the country needs leadership that respects human rights, strengthens institutions and ensures citizens participate meaningfully in decision-making.
She says young people must take a greater role in shaping governance.
Wamalwa pointed to events since June 2024, including the deaths of young Kenyans during protests, as evidence of the consequences of failing to listen to citizens and address concerns around governance, accountability and justice.
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She cited the death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang as a painful reminder of the need for accountable leadership and institutions that protect citizens’ rights.
“The death of Albert Ojwang remains a painful reminder of the kind of leadership and institutions we must never accept as normal,” she said.
Wamalwa also condemned violence recently witnessed in Homa Bay targeting women, including young women participating in politics and speaking against injustice.
“When women are attacked for exercising their constitutional rights, it is not only an attack on those women; it is an attack on democracy itself,” she said.
Women and youth at the centre
Wamalwa says her decision to seek elective office is inspired by women who played significant roles in Kenya’s struggle for democracy and good governance.
She cited environmentalist Wangari Maathai, politician Julia Ojiambo and former Justice Minister Martha Karua, among other women who stood firm during difficult periods in Kenya’s history.
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“We have learnt from the courageous women who came before us. Women such as Wangari Maathai, Julia Ojiambo, Martha Karua and many others that stood firm when Kenya confronted some of its darkest and most difficult regimes,” she said.
“It is because of this history, and because of the Kenya we want to build, that I have chosen to vie for the Webuye West Constituency parliamentary seat,” she said.
“I have chosen to speak when the values enshrined in our Constitution are threatened. I have chosen to stand for the young woman who fears that she may be the next victim of injustice,” Wamalwa said.
“To every woman who wants to stand for something but looks at the political landscape and feels that the field is too volatile, I say, you are not alone. Together, we can,” she said.
Appeals for campaign support
As she begins positioning herself for the election, Wamalwa has appealed to supporters and well-wishers for financial and logistical support to help her mount a grassroots campaign across Webuye West.
“I cannot do it alone. I humbly appeal for your support both in cash and kind to help facilitate my movements and operations on the ground as I share my vision and rally for votes in Webuye West,” she said.
She asked those willing to support her campaign to channel contributions through Joyce Kimani on +254 795 918 555.
Wamalwa says technology will also be important in mobilising young people and communicating her political message.
“We have technology that can amplify our voices, digital platforms that can connect us and a generation of young people who have the numbers, are more informed, more connected and more determined than ever before,” she said.
She urged young people to use these platforms not merely to criticise existing leadership but to participate in building the leadership they want.
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“The time has come for us to use those tools. Not simply to complain about the leadership we have, but to build and provide the leadership we deserve,” she said.
Wamalwa holds a Master’s Degree in Digital Journalism from Aga Khan University in Nairobi and a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Media from Egerton University.
Her entry into the Webuye West race adds a new dimension to the constituency’s political contest as aspirants position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
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