Kasalu Takes Early Lead in Kitui Governor Race – Online Poll Shows

The battle for Kitui’s top seat is shaping up to be a fierce contest, with Hon. Dr. Irene Kasalu, Senator Enock Wambua, and MP Makali Mulu emerging as frontrunners ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial elections.

A recent online poll conducted in the Mwingi North Updates and Scorecard forum has highlighted shifting voter sentiments.

Dr. Kasalu leads with 47.3% of the 222 votes cast, followed by Senator Wambua with 28.3%, while Dr. Mulu secured 16.2%. Former Governor Dr. Charity Ngilu and Nicholas Mulila received minimal backing at 3.2% each.

The numbers suggest that Kitui voters are weighing new leadership options, with Kasalu’s performance as Woman Representative giving her an early advantage.

However, analysts caution that political alliances, party endorsements, and regional dynamics could drastically alter the race as 2027 approaches.

“Kasalu has made significant inroads through women and youth empowerment programs, but Wambua’s national visibility and Mulu’s grassroots networks cannot be ignored,” noted one local observer.

Kitui’s political history also adds intrigue. The county has previously embraced women in leadership, with Dr. Charity Ngilu becoming one of Kenya’s first female governors in 2017.

Whether voters will again rally behind a woman candidate, or swing toward seasoned male contenders, remains uncertain.

As the poll shows, no single candidate has an overwhelming majority, meaning coalitions and party strategies will be crucial in determining who captures the governor’s seat.

With more than two years to go, the Kitui governorship race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the Ukambani region, setting the stage for a high-stakes political showdown.