Gideon Moi is preparing for a political comeback. The former senator and son of Kenya’s second president will contest the Baringo senatorial by-election on 27 November, setting up a heated face-off with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Kiprono Cheburet.
KANU, the independence party that Moi now chairs, announced his candidacy on Thursday. Party officials said the decision followed “extensive consultations and consensus” with members and residents of Baringo County.
In a statement, KANU described Moi as an “experienced, visionary, and people-centred leader.” The party urged supporters to rally behind him, stressing that his bid comes at “a critical moment for both Baringo and the country.”
Moi, who served as Baringo’s first senator from 2013, recaptured the seat in 2017 but lost in the 2022 General Election. Speaking after his nomination, he thanked supporters for their patience and loyalty. “I remain committed to a people-driven campaign anchored on inclusivity, accountability, and service,” he said.
His main rival, Kiprono Cheburet, secured the UDA ticket after winning a competitive party primary. Cheburet polled 48,791 votes, leaving his closest challenger Tobole Kipsang Kibor Wycliffe with 30,897. Daniel Kiptoo Korir came third with 23,613. Nine candidates in total contested the ruling party ticket, underscoring the high stakes of the Baringo race.
The by-election will test Moi’s ability to reconnect with voters in a region that has long been seen as his family’s political stronghold. For UDA, the contest offers a chance to cement its grip on the Rift Valley, a region central to President William Ruto’s base.
As the campaigns begin, residents of Baringo face a familiar choice: return a veteran leader with a storied political name, or embrace a fresh face under the banner of the country’s most dominant party.
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