With the 2027 General Election approaching, the race for the Bomet senatorial seat ahead of the 2027 polls is gradually taking shape, and one name that continues to dominate political conversations across the county is Chepkirui Kones.

Since she entered the race on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, Kones has redefined fresh energy into Bomet politics by positioning herself as a grassroots mobilizer, a women and youth champion, and a new-generation leader seeking to reshape the county’s political direction.

“Today I came here to transfer my vote to this county, and I have already confirmed that I’m allowed to cast my vote here. Therefore, I’m fully allowed to vie for the senatorial seat in this county, and I want to declare that I will be in the race,” Kones said during a presser.

Chepkirui, who is married to Belgut MP Nelson Koech, carries a politically influential name linked to the late former minister Kipkalya Kones, whose legacy still resonates strongly in South Rift politics.

Despite carrying the legacy of one of the Kipsigis most prominent political families, she is establishing her own political identity through intensive grassroots mobilisation and structured economic engagement across Bomet’s five sub-counties: Bomet Central, Bomet East, Sotik, Konoin, and Chepalungu.

How simple slogan has shaped his engagement

Kones has intensified grassroots engagements across the county, holding consultative meetings with residents, youth groups, women’s organisations, farmers, church leaders, and opinion shapers.

With her slogan KakuuRaa (It is time for Chepkirui to lead), which resonates with the Kipsigis community, she has been rallying residents around what she terms as inclusive leadership and people-centred oversight.

Her political approach has largely centered on direct interaction with ordinary wananchi, a strategy that has seen her popularity rise steadily in various parts of the county.

“Listening to the public’s views, ideas, and concerns remains important in shaping a people-centred leadership that reflects the needs and aspirations of our communities,” Kones stated.

The road to 2027

By launching engagements, which are seen as an active campaign well ahead of the official election season, Kones has altered the timeline of the Bomet senatorial race. Her consistent local presence forces potential competitors to adjust their strategies earlier than anticipated.

As political alignments continue to take shape within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and other regional parties, Kones’ focus on the race position her as a central figure to watch in the South Rift’s political landscape.

“The voices of the people matter most. Through these conversations, we continue to exchange ideas, listen to the challenges facing our communities, and discuss practical solutions that will help move Bomet County forward,” Kones stated.

Open for competitive race

Her entry sets the stage for a competitive contest that already features incumbent senator Hillary Sigei, who is expected to defend his seat, and outgoing two-term governor Hillary Barchok, who has also declared interest in the position.

Former Bomet governor Isaac Rutto had also declared his support for governor Barchok for him to run for the seat, and they have been influential figures in the region for the top seats.

The race is further complicated by the presence of other influential local leaders, including Moloo Sobon.