Political realignment is underway in Nakuru County with leaders allied to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) making moves to solidify their base ahead of the 2027 elections.

However, a major fallout between Governor Susan Kihika and Senator Tabitha Karanja remains a stumbling block to cohesion among the leaders.

At a recent event at Mercy Njeri Secondary School to launch a new school bus, a host of Nakuru lawmakers vowed to unite and resist the growing influence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), which has been gaining traction.

The event was marked by a notable show of solidarity, particularly from Rongai MP Paul Chebor, who has been one of Kihika’s most vocal critics.

Kihika used the occasion to reflect on her political journey, emphasising how critics had inadvertently propelled her rise in politics.

“I have faced tough opposition, but I’ve never let that deter me. My development track record speaks for itself,” she said.

Despite these overtures, a deepening rift with Karanja remains a thorn in Kihika’s side.

Known for her independent streak, the senator has consistently resisted internal calls to toe the party line, creating friction within UDA’s Nakuru ranks.

Adding to the growing complexity is Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara, a staunch ally of Gachagua. She veered off the UDA path, further intensifying the political intrigues in Nakuru.

Kihara has been linked to the growing influence of DCP in Nakuru County and has openly criticised the ruling party, recently coming under DCI scrutiny for controversial remarks.

Kihika has nevertheless managed to rally a majority of Nakuru’s elected leaders under her umbrella. Among them are MPs Samuel Arama (Nakuru Town West), David Gikaria (Nakuru East), Kuria Kimani (Molo), Alfred Mutai (Kuresoi North), Charity Kathambi (Njoro), Irene Njoki (Bahati), Joseph Tonui (Kuresoi South), Paul Chebor (Rongai), and Woman Representative Liza Chelule.

The collective show of support is widely interpreted as a strategic move to present a united front and counter emerging threats.

One of those threats is CPA Geoffrey Mwangi Gitau, the former NHIF CEO, who has declared interest in running for governorship in 2027.

Running under the DCP banner, Gitau has mounted an aggressive grassroots campaign, branding himself as a clean, capable alternative to the current leadership.

Compounding the governor’s challenges is speculation on the possible return of former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui.

Now the Trade CS, Kinyanjui, remains a formidable political figure. His re-entry into Nakuru’s politics would likely reignite old rivalries and complicate the county’s shifting political dynamics.

With these undercurrents taking shape, President William Ruto is expected to play a pivotal role in consolidating UDA support in Rift Valley as he builds a campaign machine ahead of the 2027 polls.