Kapseret MP Aspirant John Chumba Declares Interest in 2027 Parliamentary Race

By Wasike Elvis

Kapseret constituency is steadily shaping into a key political battleground ahead of the 2027 General Election following the formal declaration by businessman and community leader John Chumba that he will vie for the Member of Parliament seat currently held by President William Ruto’s close ally, Oscar Kipchumba Sudi.

Chumba made the declaration during a colourful family and community gathering in Kapseret, where elders, youth, women leaders and residents turned up in large numbers. He described the event as a historic milestone in his political journey and in the broader political narrative of Kapseret.

“I am from Kapseret, and today marks a historic moment for our people,” Chumba said. “My family, the KapLeleito family, has unanimously endorsed my candidature and entrusted me with the leadership mantle. This is a moment of honour, humility and responsibility.”

According to Chumba, the endorsement was not merely symbolic but a cultural affirmation of leadership and trust, giving him the confidence to seek a wider mandate from the people of Kapseret. He noted that while the family endorsement was important, his ambition is firmly anchored in serving all residents of the constituency, regardless of background, age or political affiliation.

“I stand here not just as a representative of my family, but as a servant of every citizen of Kapseret,” he said. “My goal is to advocate for change, peace and inclusive development.”

Vision for a New Kapseret

Chumba announced that he will be contesting the Kapseret parliamentary seat in 2027 on a platform of hope, change and transformation. He said the constituency needs leadership with a clear vision, a practical agenda and a strong voice in Parliament.

“For the first time in our history, Kapseret can have a leader who speaks in Parliament with clarity, who understands legislation, and who always puts the interests of the people first,” he said.

He added that residents are increasingly frustrated by what he termed a lack of focused leadership and slow development, noting that 2027 presents an opportunity to reset the constituency’s development trajectory.

“We are tired of leadership without vision, without an agenda and without accountability,” Chumba said. “The people of Kapseret are ready for a new chapter.”

Youth at the Centre of the Agenda

Youth empowerment featured prominently in Chumba’s address, with the aspirant describing young people as the backbone and future of the nation. He expressed concern over high youth unemployment, drug and substance abuse, and limited economic opportunities.

“Seventy-five percent of unemployed men in this country are youth,” he said. “They bear the brunt of unemployment, insecurity, violence and social exclusion.”

Chumba called on parents, community leaders and government agencies to work together to protect young people from drugs and substance abuse, while also urging county authorities to strictly regulate businesses to ensure compliance with licensing and operational standards.

He further urged the national government to set aside a dedicated and substantial youth empowerment fund, arguing that existing allocations are inadequate compared to the scale of the problem.

“You cannot build a powerful nation if you do not empower the youth,” he emphasized.

Education, Skills and Global Exposure

The aspirant also highlighted education as a key driver of transformation, calling for increased investment in technical training institutes (TTIs) and improved learning facilities across the constituency.

“We must equip our youth with the right skills and modern facilities so that they can compete locally and internationally,” he said.

Drawing from his personal experience studying in the United States, Chumba said international exposure can significantly transform young people and communities. He pledged to champion scholarship programs and partnerships that would enable Kapseret youth to study abroad and return with skills, knowledge and networks.

“I am living proof that education and exposure can change lives,” he said. “I want our youth to understand that success is not comfortable and does not happen in a comfort zone.”

He urged young people to embrace discipline, hard work, patience and delayed gratification, describing them as the true cost of success.

Development Priorities

Chumba outlined an ambitious development agenda that he said would form the backbone of his parliamentary work if elected. Top on the list is job creation, both locally and internationally, particularly for young people.

He also emphasized infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, water supply, sanitation and electricity, noting that these are critical enablers of economic growth and social wellbeing.

“Infrastructure is the foundation of development,” he said. “If we want to transform Kapseret and Kenya as a whole, we must invest heavily in infrastructure.”

On housing, Chumba welcomed the national government’s affordable housing initiative, saying it has the potential to create jobs while addressing the housing deficit. He also called for strong support of universal healthcare, arguing that accessible and affordable healthcare is essential for national productivity and dignity.

Land ownership and title deed challenges in areas such as Megun, Ngeria, Kapseret, Kipkenyo and Langas also featured in his speech. He pledged to push for lasting solutions to land-related disputes and delays that have affected many families for decades.

Additionally, Chumba committed to strengthening social protection programs targeting persons with disabilities, the elderly and other vulnerable groups, saying no community can prosper while leaving its weakest members behind.

Security and Grassroots Leadership

Security concerns, particularly in Langas and Kipkeren, were also highlighted. Chumba said effective leadership requires a deep understanding of local realities, including street-level challenges.

“We need leaders who understand every street, every block and every ward,” he said. “Security solutions must be practical and community-driven.”

He described his leadership philosophy as “sovereign leadership,” a people-centred approach that emphasizes listening, inclusive public participation and solution-oriented governance.

Looking Ahead to 2027

As the 2027 General Election approaches, Chumba urged residents, especially young people, to register for national identity cards and voter cards, warning that meaningful change can only be achieved through active participation in the democratic process.

“You cannot complain about leadership if you do not vote,” he said, calling on the government to simplify and waive fees associated with ID and voter registration for young people.

Chumba concluded by expressing optimism about Kapseret’s future, saying the constituency has the potential to become a model of development and good governance.

“This is about ushering a new chapter of development, jobs and dignity,” he said. “Kapseret deserves a Member of Parliament who cares, who speaks in Parliament, who legislates effectively and who makes the people proud.”

His declaration sets the stage for a closely watched political contest in Kapseret, a constituency traditionally associated with President William Ruto and his allies, and signals the beginning of an intense political season as aspirants position themselves ahead of 2027.