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Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi's decision to contest the Baringo senatorial by-election has forced the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to re-strategize, setting the stage for a high-stakes political contest. The by-election follows the death of Senator William Cheptumo in February 2025.
The political landscape in Baringo County is experiencing a significant shift following Kanu Chairman Gideon Moi's declaration to vie for the vacant senatorial seat. This move has prompted the dominant United Democratic Alliance (UDA) to convene urgent meetings to counter Kanu's influence in the region ahead of the November 27 by-election.
The Baringo senatorial seat became vacant after the death of Senator William Cheptumo in February 2025. Cheptumo, a UDA member, had unseated Gideon Moi in the 2022 General Election. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has scheduled the by-election for November 27.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reportedly convened a meeting with all Members of Parliament from Baringo County. This meeting, held at his office, is widely perceived as a strategic session to address Moi's entry into the race and ensure UDA retains the seat. A source indicated that the party leadership is concerned and is mobilising all efforts to secure victory.
UDA had already concluded its primaries, with Kiprono Cheburet clinching the party ticket after garnering 48,791 votes. He defeated eight other contenders in an electronic voting exercise held earlier in September 2025. His closest rival, Tobole Kipsang, received 30,897 votes.
Kanu officially announced Moi's candidature on Thursday, October 2, 2025, following extensive consultations within the party and with Baringo residents. Moi, who previously served as Baringo Senator from 2013 to 2022, expressed gratitude for the endorsement and pledged a campaign focused on inclusivity, accountability, and service.
Analysts suggest that Moi's entry could significantly influence public debate and policy execution in the near term. Stakeholders are calling for clarity on timelines, costs, and safeguards related to the by-election. The contest is also seen as a renewed confrontation between President William Ruto and Gideon Moi, whose political rivalry intensified during the 2022 elections. In 2022, Moi openly opposed Ruto's presidential bid, which reportedly led to a strategic effort by Ruto's allies to ensure Moi's defeat.
The by-election is expected to be a high-stakes political contest, particularly in the Rift Valley region, a stronghold for UDA. Moi's bid is viewed by some as an attempt to redeem his political standing and the legacy of the Moi family, whose influence in Rift Valley politics diminished after the 2022 elections.
The Baringo senatorial by-election will be a key indicator of voter sentiment ahead of the 2027 General Election and a test of UDA's dominance in the Rift Valley. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has pledged to oversee a free and fair process.
