Youthful Kisii politician Duke Mainga has announced a dramatic political shift, cutting ties with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and declaring his intention to vie for the Bomachoge Borabu parliamentary seat in the next General Election.
Mainga, once considered an ally of President William Ruto, said his decision was informed by a “growing disconnect” between local priorities and the national political agenda he had previously supported.
While he avoided directly criticising the President, his remarks signalled a clear break from the ruling coalition’s influence in Kisii, particularly following the entry of Fred Matiang’i into the presidential race.
“I have always trusted doing what my people want,” said Mainga, also known as Echate, during an interview with a local vernacular station on Wednesday.
He revealed that his decision followed a period of reflection after he was heckled while urging residents to respect President Ruto during a burial in Kenyenya.
“Yes, while it initially appeared planned, I later took time to reflect. The result of that reflection is the decision I have made—to focus more firmly on what the people of Bomachoge want. Leadership is about listening, and I have heard the concerns on the ground,” he said.
Mainga is currently winding up his tenure as chair of the Commodity Fund, a state agency, and previously served as Kisii County sports executive.
His announcement comes amid increasing political realignments across the country as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.
In Kisii—long regarded as a politically dynamic and unpredictable region—Mainga’s move is expected to reshape alliances and intensify competition among aspirants.
He is likely to face incumbent MP Obadiah Barongo, a known ally of Matiang’i, as well as former MP Prof Zadock Ogutu.
Mainga previously contested the seat at the age of 24 but was unsuccessful. He now says he feels better prepared for the challenge.
“I have grown, learned, and engaged deeply with the issues affecting our people. I now feel ready—not just in age, but in wisdom and understanding—to represent my constituents effectively,” he said.
Beyond politics, Mainga is also an artist and has organised events in Nairobi and Naivasha aimed at empowering creatives. He dismissed allegations of misappropriation tied to a past event in Kisii, describing them as unfounded.
“Although the one we planned in Kisii did not succeed, it still reflects the goodwill I have for our musicians,” he said.
His exit from UDA comes weeks after a social media spat with a section of party leaders in Kisii, whom he accused of arrogance and detachment from the electorate.
“Leadership is about service, not self-importance. When leaders elevate themselves above the people, they forget why they were elected in the first place,” he said.
Though he did not name individuals, Mainga urged leaders to embrace humility and reconnect with wananchi, stressing that political success depends on accountability and responsiveness.
He pledged to prioritise infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment if elected.
Criticising what he termed years of stalled development, Mainga said many parts of Bomachoge Borabu still lack reliable roads, adequate health facilities, and access to clean water.
“I am committed to ensuring that every ward in Bomachoge Borabu experiences tangible development. Our roads must be passable, our schools well-equipped, and our youth given real opportunities to thrive,” he said.
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