Arise Media 
BY STEPHEN KILONZI
A section of youthful leaders who serve as Bus Party Ambassadors under the Devolution Empowerment Party (DEP), popularly known as the ‘Bus’ party, has endorsed former Senator Lenny Kivuti for the 2027 Embu gubernatorial race, signaling a potential political shakeup in the county.
The endorsement, made during the launch of the group’s work plan, is viewed as a strategic move to rally young voters behind Kivuti, who narrowly lost to incumbent Governor Cecily Mbarire in the 2022 elections.
Led by DEP Deputy Executive Director Nicholas Kasanga, the youth group cited Kivuti’s leadership experience and development agenda as key reasons for their support.
“We believe the time has come to inject new energy into Embu’s leadership. We want a leader who prioritizes development, and Kivuti is the best bet,” Kasanga stated.
The group, which has a defined leadership structure—including Esther Wanjiru as Secretary, Charles Nyamai as Treasurer, and Hildah Nyaga and Lawrence Mutugi as Communication Directors—pledged to mobilize more young people into active political participation.
“We are not just spectators in this county’s leadership; we are stakeholders in its future,” Kasanga added.
Kivuti, a seasoned politician, has come close to clinching the governor’s seat twice. In 2022, he lost to Mbarire by just over 3,000 votes, securing 105,246 votes against her 108,610.
He also lost narrowly in 2017 to then-Governor Martin Wambora. With youth leaders now rallying behind him, Kivuti is seen as preparing for a serious comeback.
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The endorsement aligns with DEP’s broader push for grassroots empowerment, championed by leaders such as Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi.
The party has advocated for better resource allocation to counties and governance structures prioritizing citizen needs.
While Kivuti builds his support base among young voters, Mbarire, backed by the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), is likely to mount a strong defense of her seat in the coming elections (2027).
With the youth vote emerging as a key factor, the upcoming elections may not just be determined by party alliances but by a generational shift demanding greater political influence. The stage is set for a high-stakes battle that could redefine Embu’s leadership.
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