Three first term governors in the North Rift are gearing to defend their seats in next year’s elections.
Five of their colleagues will be exiting after completing two terms.
They are yet to make known their political plans for the future.
Those who will be seeking re-election include Stephen Sang of Nandi, John Lonyangapuo (West Pokot) and Stanley Kiptis (Baringo).
Uasin Gishu’s Jackson Mandago, Patrick Khaemba (Trans Nzoia), Alex Tolgos (Elgeyo Marakwet), Josphat Nanok (Turkana) and Moses Lenolkulal (Samburu) will be exiting from the leadership in their respective counties.
Sang will be defending his seat through the UDA party where he faces tough competition from Lawyer Allan Kosgey.
Kosgey is interested in vying and already hit the ground in readiness for the elections.
“I will be in the race to work with the people in taking Nandi to the next level. I believe Nandi requires more service and work to the people rather than too much politicking as has been the case,” he said.
Also in the race is former Nandi Governor Cleophas Lagat.
On his part, Sang says he will be riding on his successes in streamlining the health sector, helping farmers to improve production in the agriculture sector and also infrastructure improvements as his key scorecards to seek a second term.
Senator Samson Cherargei has been leading those accusing Sang of alleged poor leadership and underperformance.
In West Pokot Governor Lonyangapuo who was elected through Kanu has fallen out with the party and is planning to launch a new outfit through which he will be defending his seat.
He will however face off with former Governor Simon Kachapin and several other aspirants.
Analysts say Lonyangapuo will face tough competition from Kachapin who is currently serving as CAS in the Education ministry.
In Baringo, the governor’s race is likely to be the toughest in the region with several political heavyweights eyeing the seat.
Kiptis will defend his seat through UDA but several other allies of DP William Ruto are expected to vie including former Governor Benjamin Cheboi.
Labour CS is also reported to be considering making a stab at the governor seat but he has not come out to declare his interest.
There are indications that the race may also attract several other professionals from the county.
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