Murkomen hails youthful leadership following Baringo UDA primaries
By Mustafa Juma, September 24, 2025Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has lauded the role of young leaders in shaping the country’s political future, following the conclusion of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) primaries in Baringo County.
The nominations, held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, ahead of the upcoming Baringo senatorial by-election, saw Kiprono Chemitei emerge victorious after a tightly contested race.
Murkomen, in a statement shared via his official X account on the night of Wednesday, September 24, 2025, commended Chemitei and other youthful aspirants for their courage and vision, noting that the contest reflected the spirit of renewal within the ruling party.
Murkomen’s political journey
He recalled his own political journey, noting that 12 years ago, he was mentored and entrusted with leadership opportunities at a young age under the guidance of President William Ruto.
“Twelve years ago, as a young and aspiring leader, I was humbled when His Excellency President William Ruto entrusted me with an opportunity through a political party under his stewardship. It was through his confidence and the faith of the great people of Elgeyo Marakwet County that I was elected to the Senate. Despite my youth and inexperience at the time, they placed their trust in me, granting me the privilege to represent them and to serve our beloved country,” Murkomen recounted.
Murkomen further urged the emerging leaders from the Baringo contest to remain resilient, adding that their time to make a significant impact was coming.
Unity of UDA candidates
The CS also praised the unity of candidates who lost in the primaries but chose to rally behind Chemitei, saying this spirit of togetherness was key to strengthening both the party and the country’s democratic process.
“The just concluded UDA Baringo County nominations for the forthcoming by-election remind us of the essence of leadership—a journey of ambition, reflection, resilience, and renewal. This moment presents yet another opportunity to nurture and elevate young, visionary leaders, in line with the guidance and platform of His Excellency the President. Earlier this evening, I met my younger brothers Mr. Kiprono Chemitei and Mr. Wycliffe Tobole, both of whom were formidable contenders and fierce rivals in this contest, alongside other outstanding candidates. While Mr. Chemitei emerged victorious, I commend the courage, vision, and commitment of all who offered themselves for leadership, many of whom were young people eager to serve. These guys have a great future,” he stated.
“Just as we were mentored by His Excellency the President, I extend my encouragement and counsel to each of them as they continue their journey of service. I have no doubt they will, in due course, distinguish themselves as leaders of great impact in various spheres of our nation. As we now look ahead, I wish Mr. Chemitei the very best as he prepares for the by-election, and I am encouraged by the unity of his competitors who have chosen to rally behind him. This spirit of togetherness is a powerful testament to their commitment to the greater good of Baringo County and to the future of our country.”