Opposition backs Rotich in Emurua Dikirr contest

DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua hands over a Nomination Certificate to Vincent  Kibet Rotich at the Party's head office. [Benard Orwongo, Standard]

The United Opposition has begun mobilising support in Emurua Dikirr Constituency to back DCP candidate Vincent Rotich ahead of the May 14 by-election, rallying behind the #Wantam slogan to present a united front.

Rotich will face UDA’s David Keter, also known as “Dollarline,” in a race expected to test the opposition’s influence after performing poorly in recent by-elections.

Jubilee Party Narok branch secretary-general David Lemein confirmed that the party will not field a candidate and will instead support Rotich, citing confidence in his leadership and the DCP party’s direct nomination.

Trans Mara activist Johana Kamilan also pledged support, as DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua is expected to campaign in the area.

On the UDA side, the race has been strengthened by the withdrawal of Jubilee candidate Vincent Cheruiyot. Last week, Bernard Ngeno, who came second in UDA nominations, announced he would not contest as an Independent, instead focusing on 2027 and rallying support for UDA candidate Keter.

His decision is expected to greatly shape the contest, boosting UDA’s chances in a constituency largely aligned with President William Ruto

Ilkerin MCA Ezekiel Kosgei expressed confidence in a UDA victory, saying voters have made up their minds. Keter enjoys backing from senior leaders including Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu and Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo.

In the UDA nominations, Keter won 13,759 votes against Ng’eno’s 13,394, a margin of 365 votes. The IEBC has set the by-election for May 14, with 44,447 registered voters expected to cast their ballots in the contest

Emurua Dikirr Constituency was carved out of the larger Kilgoris Constituency ahead of the 2013 General Election. The late Johanna Ng’eno has been the only MP to represent the area since its creation.