Ndaragwa 2027: Who’s who in the race?

By Newsflash Team

The race for the Ndaragwa parliamentary seat (Nyandarua County) in 2027 is steadily taking shape, with a diverse mix of familiar faces, fresh entrants, and rising political voices positioning themselves early.

Below is a balanced analysis of the leading contenders so far, focusing on their profiles, strengths, and the political dynamics shaping their bids.

Gitau Njamba

Current Shamata MCA

Gitau Njamba enters the race as one of the most visible grassroots politicians in Ndaragwa. He has built a reputation as a hands-on MCA who consistently pushes for development and service delivery in Shamata Ward. His close political ties with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the DCP party give him valuable high-level connections, while his solid campaign machinery and ground mobilization skills make him a serious contender.

Njamba draws strong support from his home ward and benefits from a disciplined internal strategy team. Like many candidates from competitive regions, he will be navigating a crowded political space and broader constituency dynamics, but his energetic approach and organisational strength keep him firmly in contention.

George Gachagua

Current Ndaragwa MP (UDA)

Often described as understated but formidable, MP George Gachagua brings the advantage of incumbency. His tenure is marked by visible infrastructure projects, including road tarmacking and school construction, alongside a reputation for fairly distributing bursaries and development attention across the constituency.

Known for his calm, approachable, and non-confrontational style, Gachagua has quietly built loyal support pockets throughout Ndaragwa. With significant campaign resources and a track record in government, he remains a strong player, particularly among voters who value continuity and stability.

Gathungu Kamau

Current Leshau Pondo Ward MCA

Gathungu Kamau is a familiar name, especially in Leshau Pondo and neighbouring Kiriita Ward—one of the most vote-rich zones in the constituency. He is widely respected for stepping in to assist residents in times of need and for forcefully articulating ward interests.

A dependable grassroots mobiliser, Kamau has also cultivated networks beyond his ward, particularly in Ndaragwa Central. As with many ambitious local leaders, his journey will involve managing intense competition and coalition-building, but his visibility and passion for local issues keep his profile strong.

CPA Amos Karoki

New entrant – Subego, Ndaragwa Central Ward

Amos Karoki represents a new generation of leadership in the Ndaragwa race. Free from political baggage, he is positioning himself as a fresh alternative with a technocratic outlook. Hailing from vote-rich Ndaragwa Central, Karoki’s messaging around inclusivity and representation for historically marginalised areas could resonate widely.

His calm, serious demeanour sets him apart from conventional campaign styles, and while he is still building local visibility, his entry adds an interesting underdog narrative to the contest.

Mwangi Kagwe

Current Ndaragwa Central Ward MCA

Mwangi Kagwe is one of the more enigmatic figures in the race. His low-key, measured style makes him unpredictable—often a strategic advantage in politics. He boasts deep networks within national government and comes from Ndaragwa Central, a critical voting bloc.

Representing a large and diverse ward has exposed him to varied expectations, but it has also given him a broad understanding of constituency challenges. If he activates his networks and messaging more aggressively, Kagwe could emerge as a surprise force.

Ikua wa Mbote

Media personality and political commentator

Well known for his informed debates on Inooro TV and Inooro FM, Ikua wa Mbote brings policy depth and communication skills into the race. He demonstrates a strong grasp of parliamentary duties and government operations, backed by influential networks.

From Kiriita Ward, a traditional political powerhouse, Ikua’s challenge lies in translating his media visibility into grassroots mobilisation across the wider constituency. His entry appeals to voters looking for articulate, policy-driven leadership.

Kamau Kanjambi

First-time aspirant

Kamau Kanjambi is one of the most energetic newcomers in Ndaragwa politics. His unconventional, high-octane campaign style has quickly made his name recognizable. Backed by youth energy, financial muscle, and relentless drive, he is tapping into the influential Kiriita–Leshau political belt.

His Gen Z–focused appeal and urban-style campaigns have sparked conversation and visibility. As he refines his message and broadens his outreach, Kanjambi remains a candidate to watch, especially among younger voters.

Jacob Macharia “Jakes”

Jacob Macharia, popularly known as Jakes, first gained attention through sustained online campaigns, earning a reputation as a digitally savvy aspirant. Recently, he has shifted gears, increasing physical engagement in Kiriita and Leshau Pondo.

Branding himself as a professional returning from the US with solutions, Jakes appeals to voters intrigued by global exposure and fresh thinking. As he deepens his grassroots presence, his campaign continues to evolve beyond the digital space.