Women sharpen knives for Onchoke as Bonchari 2027 race heats up

A political battle may be brewing in Bonchari for the 2027 General Election, with three women emerging as potential candidates to challenge incumbent MP Dr Charles Onchoke. The women include Donya Toto, Bomas of Kenya director Purity Moraa Kirera, and Stella Opole, daughter of former Bonchari MP Zebedeo Opore. Their potential entry has generated interest among residents who see it as an opportunity for political change in a constituency that has largely been dominated by men in political contests.

Nyakundi Okeri, a barber from Nyangoge, expressed his support for the emerging bids, stating that residents are tired of politics dominated by the same faces and are ready to give women an opportunity. Mary Lazarus, another resident, emphasized that voters should evaluate the potential candidates based on their ideas and record rather than their gender.

Toto, who is aligned with both President William Ruto's political camp and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), has positioned herself within the political landscape by emphasizing her experience as an elected official and her commitment to serving the people of Bonchari. Kirera, with her public-sector position and links to the national government, could offer a different proposition in the race, while Opole, the daughter of a former MP, aims to establish an independent political identity.

Onchoke may face the challenge of navigating multiple campaigns and political alliances, as the emergence of female candidates represents a shift in Bonchari's traditionally male-dominated political landscape, signaling a potential for greater female participation in the constituency.