The widow of the late Johana Ng’eno has withdrawn from the race to succeed him as Member of Parliament for Emurua Dikirr, citing personal reasons, her family said.
Naiyanoi Ntuntu, who had been endorsed by a section of local leaders and residents, stepped aside following consultations among political allies linked to the late MP.
Her withdrawal comes as political alignments begin to take shape in the constituency ahead of the by-election.
Family spokesperson David Ngetich said the decision was influenced by her need for time to grieve following her husband’s death.
“She is not well because she just lost her husband,” Ngetich said.
Ng’eno died on 28 February 2026 following a helicopter crash in Nandi County that claimed six lives.
His death created a vacancy in the Emurua Dikirr parliamentary seat, triggering constitutional requirements for a by-election.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has scheduled the by-election for 14 May 2026. IEBC said the exercise is expected to cost approximately KSh59 million.
Before her withdrawal, Ntuntu had been listed among several aspirants expressing interest in the seat, alongside political associates of the late MP and other contenders.
Earlier proposals by some leaders to rally behind her sparked debate within the constituency. Supporters cited continuity of leadership, while others called for an open contest to allow wider participation.
Her decision to withdraw clears the path for other aspirants as political competition intensifies.
The by-election in Emurua Dikirr has attracted significant attention within Narok County due to the constituency’s influence in regional politics.
Political activity has increased as candidates engage residents through grassroots campaigns while awaiting the poll.
Despite Ntuntu’s withdrawal, the race remains competitive as aspirants position themselves to shape the constituency’s political future.
