How church endorsements and party tickets could shape Nairobi’s 2027 woman rep race
By Aloys Michael, June 12, 2026The battle for the Nairobi Woman Representative seat is already taking shape more than a year before Kenyans head to the ballot in 2027, with church endorsements and political party tickets emerging as two critical factors that could determine who succeeds outgoing Woman Representative Esther Passaris.
Passaris has indicated that she will not seek re-election and is instead expected to contest the Makadara parliamentary seat, opening up one of Nairobi’s most influential elective positions for a highly competitive contest.
Among the leading aspirants positioning themselves for the race are Nominated Senator Tabitha Mutinda, former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga, Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Nominated Senator Crystal Asige.
While some contenders are banking on strong political party machinery to propel their campaigns, others are increasingly turning to religious leaders and faith-based networks to build support across the capital, a charm offensive that has worked for long in the campaign chessboard.
Senator Tabitha Mutinda appears to have gained an early advantage in the church circles after receiving a formal endorsement from a section of Nairobi-based religious leaders.
The endorsement came during a prayer session held at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi on Friday, June 12, 2026, where clergy from different congregations pledged support for Mutinda’s candidature while also calling for peace and national unity ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Led by Bishop Richard Onwong’a of Faith International Church and Pastor William Mwangangi of Jesus Manifestation Church, the religious leaders said the church has a vital role in shaping responsible leadership and fostering cohesion during election periods.
“As servants of God, we recognise the important role of the church in promoting peace, unity, reconciliation and moral leadership in society,” the clergy said in a joint statement.
The church leaders also committed themselves to mobilising prayers across their congregations to encourage peaceful elections, responsible leadership and national unity.
The contest
At the same time, they condemned divisive politics, hate speech and intolerance that often characterise election seasons, urging leaders and citizens to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
Mutinda welcomed the endorsement, saying the support from religious leaders was both encouraging and humbling.
“Churches of Nairobi have come together to pray for me and give me their blessings. I thank you so much,” she said.
The senator further urged religious leaders to continue praying for young people and educational institutions, warning that the country faces significant social challenges.
“Churches and pastors, continue praying for our schools. A lot is happening. Pray for our generation. Pray for peace,” she added.
Mutinda’s church backing could prove significant in a city where faith-based organisations wield considerable influence among voters.
However, they also point out that securing a major political party ticket will be equally important as campaigns intensify.
Former Nominated Senator Millicent Omanga, one of the most recognisable political figures in Nairobi, is relying heavily on political mobilisation and opposition unity as she seeks another shot at the seat.
Omanga, who is now aligned with the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) and the broader opposition movement, officially declared her candidature.
“Wengi wananiuliza Rada …2027, nitakuwepo Nairobi Women Rep. Na nitakua saana – with my people. Nimewaskia, tuko pamoja!” Omanga posted on her social media platforms.
Having narrowly lost the position in the 2022 General Election, Omanga remains confident that a united opposition front will boost her chances in 2027.
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“I am so impressed with the community from Mt Kenya because you gave me 600,000 votes in Nairobi in 2022. I want to say thank you. I just fell short by a small number, but this time around, in 2027, I will still be contesting for the seat,” she said.
She has also expressed optimism that emerging political alliances across the Mt Kenya, Eastern and Gusii regions could strengthen her support base.
Meanwhile, UDA-nominated Senator Karen Nyamu continues to signal strong interest in the race and is expected to leverage her grassroots networks and party support.
ODM’s Crystal Asige has also declared her interest, setting the stage for a contest that could feature some of Nairobi’s most prominent female politicians.
Amid a push for electoral zoning, UDA and ODM now face an acid test to present their best candidate if approved by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), which would garner votes and triumph as the opposition tightens its camp for the upcoming showdown.