The widow of former Emurua Dikirr MP Johanna Ng’eno, Nayianoi Ntutu, has courted online attention after celebrating the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) win in the Emurua Dikirr by-election.
Social media videos posted Thursday, May 15, showed Nayianoi Ntutu celebrating with supporters after the election results were announced. Kenyans online had mixed reactions to her public appearance and endorsement of the ruling party.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) announced UDA candidate David Keter as the winner of the by-election that saw him engage in a fierce fight with DCP candidate Vincent Kibet Rotich.
The by-election was triggered by the death of former MP Johanna Ng’eno in a helicopter crash. The contest also attracted national political attention, with many seeing it as a political fight between President William Ruto and former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.
Nayianoi Ntutu’s celebration sparked a debate on social media. Some praised her for her activism in local politics and support for her late husband’s political party, while others speculated she could turn to a political leadership role in the future.
The Emurua Dikirr by-election was keenly followed due to its political significance in the Rift Valley region and the growing rivalry among top political leaders.
