Paul Waiganjo Joins Olkarau Contest, Backs Education Reforms

Singer and businessman Paul Waiganjo has vowed to champion transparency and fairness in leadership as he seeks to become the next Member of Parliament for Olkarau.

Speaking during an interview with Kururia TV, Waiganjo outlined education as the cornerstone of his development agenda, emphasizing the need to invest in schools and expand opportunities for young people in the constituency.

“I will work for the people of Olkarau in a fair and transparent manner. Education will be my top priority,” he said, adding that empowering the youth through learning is key to long-term economic growth.

Waiganjo also pledged to build on the legacy of the late David Kiaraho, noting that continuity in development projects would be critical in ensuring progress is not stalled.

He confirmed that he will contest the seat on the Democrats for the Citizen Party (DCP) ticket, a party linked to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The party has already indicated that it will conduct transparent nominations ahead of the by-election.

The Olkarau seat fell vacant recently, prompting the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to announce a by-election scheduled for Thursday, July 16.

In a gazette notice, the commission appointed Anthony Muhia Njiraini as the Returning Officer, assisted by Deputy Returning Officer Maurine Chepkemoi Kisiero.

Political parties intending to participate in the mini-poll have until May 4 to submit the names and specimen signatures of their authorized officials, as well as details of aspirants set to take part in party primaries.

IEBC has slated May 25 and 26 for the submission of nomination papers by both political parties and independent candidates, setting the stage for a competitive race as campaigns begin to take shape.