Jackson Kosgei Declares Baringo Senate Bid, Takes Swipe at Leaders Seeking Attention Around Ruto

Speaking at a public event in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, Kosgei urged leaders to respect one another and avoid seeking validation through proximity to the Head of State.

“Leaders should respect each other. Do not go anywhere and look down on another leader as though you are more important than them,” he said, calling for mutual respect among political leaders.

The legislator appeared to criticise leaders who often position themselves close to President Ruto at public functions and ensure cameras capture the moment. He argued that no leader is closer to the president than the other, arguing that such displays often stem from insecurity rather than genuine closeness to the country’s leadership.

Did Jackson Kosgei indirectly attack Oscar Sudi?

“Those who keep passing in front of the President all the time with cameras do not mean they are closer to him. That is a sign of a problem. You’re suffering from insecurity and want to demonstrate to the world that you’re close to the President and take selfies,” Kosgei said.

Kosgei further suggested that genuine closeness to the President should be reflected in participation in decision-making processes rather than being seen in photographs.

“If you’re close to the President, sit with him in the boardroom. When the President comes out, he is the only one who will be seen and nobody else,” he said.

Although he did not mention any individual by name, his remarks have been seen as targeting Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, who is often seen strategically positioned close to President Ruto during key public events.

The MP’s statement is likely to fuel political debate within Kenya Kwanza circles, where competition for visibility around President Ruto has often attracted public attention.

Nominated MP eyes Baringo Senate Seat

In the same address, Kosgei formally announced that he will seek the Baringo Senate seat in 2027.

“2027 nitasimama kuomba kiti cha Senate katika Baringo (Come 2027, I will seek the Senate seat in Baringo),” he declared.

His entry sets the stage for a competitive race for the UDA ticket, where he is expected to face off with incumbent Senator Vincent Kiprono Chemitei, who is widely expected to seek re-election.

The contest could become even more intriguing should KANU chairman Gideon Moi decide to enter the race. The former Baringo senator is expected to be among the key figures in the county’s political landscape as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather momentum.

Moi dropped out of the race in the 2025 by-elections after meeting President Ruto. He has since claimed he was shortchanged and he is likely to be back in the race.

With Kosgei now openly declaring his interest, the battle for the Baringo Senate seat is shaping up to be one of the county’s most closely watched political contests in the run-up to 2027.