How Faith Odhiambo’s entry reshapes Nairobi Woman Rep race
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, June 21, 2026The campaign to dethrone and replace Nairobi’s former woman representative, Esther Passaris, is gradually taking off, with several political heavy hitters making a bid for the position ahead of the 2027 general election.
The contest, which has turned into one of the most closely watched political showdowns in the capital, has brought the veteran politicians, activists and new faces, all hoping to serve the biggest voting bloc in Kenya.
Faith Odhiambo joins the fray.
One of the newest and possibly most impactful names to join the fray is that of former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Faith Odhiambo. The entry has had a strong response from both sides of the aisle, and her profile as a constitutional lawyer, governance advocate, and one of the nation’s most easily recognisable voices on issues of justice and human rights has drawn attention.
Odhiambo’s tenure at the helm of the Law Society of Kenya catapulted her into the national spotlight with her frequent attacks on government actions she felt were not constitutional and her advocacy for the safeguarding of civil liberties.
Among those vying for the seat is former nominated senator Millicent Omanga. After a disappointing run in the 2022 elections against Passaris, Omanga is running with name identification, a well-established grassroots base and years of experience in politics.
She has been prominent in Nairobi politics and can expect backing from parts of the ruling coalition and her loyal followers in Nairobi. Her early proclamation has given her time to marshal her support well before many of her competitors, allowing her to become one of the front-runners in the race.
Karen Nyamu, a nominated senator, is also an aspirant for the race, aiming to broaden her political reach under the United Democratic Alliance umbrella.
Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has also made his intentions to contest for the position public, and the race may prove to be one of the most contested ones in Nairobi’s recent political history.
With her forthright nature and presence on social media, Nyamu has amassed considerable political capital over the years. Supporters think her visibility and grassroots connections may prove to be a strength in the crowded spaces. But the challenge for her is to convert that popularity to widespread electoral backing among Nairobi’s various constituencies.
Another player to watch closely is nominated senator Tabitha Mutinda, whose political trajectory is slowly gaining momentum and making her a development-driven leader.
Other public figures and activists are also interested in the race. Asige, who is a disability rights advocate and nominated senator; Hanifa Adan, an activist and blogger; and Maverick Aoko, a blogger and activist, are among those whose names have been tossed around.
Why Faith Odhiambo could alter the political equation
Faith Odhiambo’s candidacy is important as it could upset the traditional political landscape that has informed Nairobi elections in the past.
Whereas her rivals’ appeal tends to be related to the usual political structures, Odhiambo’s is based on her professional successes, reformist credentials and relation to the governance and accountability agenda.
However, Odhiambo has a hard task ahead of her, turning public support into a formidable political campaign structure.
The contest symbolises the future of Nairobi’s politics. The political future of Nairobi is symbolised by a contest.
The Nairobi Woman Representative race is not just a race between the two candidates but is a wider debate on the direction of Nairobi politics in the future.
Voters will have to decide between the veteran political players and a new generation of politicians who want to change the definition of public service.
But with political parties getting ready for the next elections in 2027 and the alliances changing, the race is likely to be even more competitive.
But for now, however, Faith Odhiambo’s candidacy has given some spice to an already competitive race to succeed Esther Passaris, making the competition one of Nairobi’s most closely followed political battles.