Edwin Sifuna, Aaron Cheruiyot emerge best-performing senators in new rankings

By Newsflash Repoter

Nairobi senator and ODM secretary general Edwin Sifuna has been ranked as the country’s best-performing senator, according to a new opinion poll released by the Leeway Africa Research Agency (LARA) on Monday, September 8.

The survey, which assessed senators, governors, and women representatives, was designed to measure leaders’ effectiveness in delivering services and representing their constituents. Sifuna received an approval rating of 70.1 percent, edging out Kericho senator Aaron Cheruiyot, who followed closely at 69.7 percent. Kisumu senator Tom Ojienda came in third with 69.0 percent.

According to the findings, Kenyans considered several indicators when ranking their leaders, including accessibility, responsiveness to local and national issues, consistency in leadership, and involvement in development projects. Political positioning also played a significant role, with many respondents praising leaders who openly defended public interests, especially in debates on the cost of living, economic reforms, and youth rights.

“Many of these leaders were seen standing with the people — boldly speaking out on issues such as the rising cost of living and defending citizens’ rights. Their willingness to echo the public’s voice and take a stand when it matters most has not gone unnoticed,” LARA explained in its report.

Why Sifuna received highest approval from Kenyans

The research agency noted that Sifuna’s top ranking was driven by his strong performance in Senate oversight and his vocal defense of devolution. His active participation in parliamentary debates and consistent push for accountability in county governance resonated with many respondents.

“Senators’ popularity within their counties is anchored in their strong oversight role on county resources, active defense of devolution, vocal representation of county interests at the national level, responsiveness to public concerns, and consistent participation in key debates shaping governance and economic direction,” the report stated.

However, LARA clarified that the rankings should not be misinterpreted as political endorsements. Instead, they represent how Kenyans perceive their elected leaders based on lived experiences. “These rankings are not endorsements, but rather reflections of how citizens feel about the quality of leadership they are receiving,” the agency said.

The survey also revealed that effective communication and accessibility contributed significantly to approval ratings. Leaders who were regularly seen engaging with their constituents, addressing grievances, and articulating county challenges at the national stage were rated more favorably.

Wider debate on devolution and Senate oversight

The findings came against the backdrop of renewed debates over the Senate’s role in overseeing county governments. Speaking at the 2025 Devolution Conference, ODM leader Raila Odinga argued that governors should not be summoned to Nairobi to answer queries, calling the practice wasteful and counterproductive. Instead, he proposed that only county executive committee members should appear before the Senate, leaving governors to focus on service delivery.

Odinga further emphasized the need for reforms to clearly separate the roles of national and county governments, insisting that accountability for devolved functions should primarily rest with county assemblies.

While these proposals continue to spark debate, the LARA survey highlights the public’s demand for strong senatorial oversight and a vocal defense of devolution — qualities that boosted Sifuna’s popularity. As Kenya heads toward another election cycle, the rankings are likely to shape public discourse on accountability, leadership, and the performance of elected officials in advancing both county and national interests.