The country’s top seat continues to attract interest from several Kenyans, the latest being Michael Kirwa, a young man from Eldoret, the home turf of current President William Ruto.
Kirwa formally declared his interest in the seat on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at his local church in the Kapkeben area of Turbo Constituency in Uasin Gishu.
The 38-year-old told congregants at AIC Wareng that he had decided to vie for the seat.
He believes he has what it takes to be the country’s number 1.
“As a youth, I have experience with what’s happening on the ground and the challenges the youths are facing,” he told faithful at the church.
According to Kirwa, he will soon hit the ground running, focusing on popularizing his four main agendas: God first, right of passage, women’s leadership, and better living conditions for street families.
He also aims to ensure the country’s debt is settled, alongside addressing unemployment among the youths.
Michael Kirwa gets pastor blessings to vie for the presidency
Kirwa told Uasin Gishu News that he already has the blessing of his local spiritual leaders.
“They prayed for me yesterday. Today was to make the announcement,” he said.
During the Sunday service, AIC Wareng Pastor Cynthia Morogo, prayed for him again, as he insisted that while Kirwa’s ambition to be the Head of State might look farfetched, anything is possible.
“I always believe in never despising humble beginnings. Kirwa’s announcement is in line with our theme for the year that pushes us to always aim for that which looks impossible,” the clergy said.
“All we can do is wish him well, and hope that God’s will is done,” she added.
Kirwa’s father was present during the event.
He told Uasin Gishu News that he had blessed his son, and wished him well in his dreams.
“We know it is God that gives everything. I have blessed my son, and wished him well as he pushed towards his dreams,” said Paul Kirwa Tuwei.
Kapkeben locals welcome his bid
Locals welcomed the announcement and expressed their willingness to support him.
They pointed out that Kirwa had over the years exhibited the ability to be a leader.
“He always talks about this dream and we are happy that he is finally in the race. We wish him well in the pursuit of his dreams,” said Nahashon Samoei, one of his long-time friends.
But vying for the presidency is no small feat and it is something Kirwa is aware of.
He admitted that he might not be well off financially but believes he can leverage other available means to reach out to the people.
He told Uasin Gishu News that he plans to make use of elders and religious leaders to reach out to the people.
In his campaigns, Kirwa plans to share sweets with those he meets – to send out a message of the kind of country he wants Kenya to be.
“The idea behind the sweets part is to pass a message that we need to have a country that everyone enjoys its sweetness – from jobs for the youths, good economy and peace for all,” Kirwa said.
As he is set to hit the ground running in his presidential bid, the young man from Uasin Gishu says he will soon unveil his party’s name and colours.