- A Kenya Track Survey poll showed Samuel Waweru leading Edward Muriu in the 2027 Gatanga MP race
- According to the poll seen by TUKO.co.ke, Waweru had 54% support against Muriu’s 39%, with 7% of voters undecided
- His grassroots presence, pro-farmer agenda, and youth focus have boosted his popularity across rural wards
TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya
A new opinion survey by Kenya Track Survey projected that businessman Samuel Waweru, popularly known as Uncle Sam, would defeat Wakili Edward Muriu if elections were held today in Gatanga constituency.
Source: Facebook
The poll was conducted between October 1 and 27, targeting 6,578 respondents across the six wards of Ithanga/Thunguri, Kihumbu-ini, Gatanga, Kakuzi/Mitubiri, Mugumo-ini, and Kariara.
The survey sought to assess voter preferences, political alignment, and public perceptions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Findings indicated that Waweru leads with 54 percent support, followed by Muriu at 39 percent, while 7 percent of voters remain undecided.
Who is likely to be Gatanga MP in 2027?
According to the poll seen by TUKO.co.ke, Waweru’s lead is driven by strong grassroots appeal, agricultural advocacy, and youth-centered programs.
Residents described him as approachable and locally grounded, frequently engaging in community projects and church events. His focus on farm productivity, irrigation, and fertilizer access has particularly boosted his popularity in agrarian areas such as Ithanga/Thunguri and Kakuzi/Mitubiri.
Waweru’s youth empowerment initiatives, including skill-building programs and boda boda SACCOs, have also attracted younger and first-time voters.
His anti-elitist message and emphasis on local identity have helped him connect with low-income and rural residents, reinforcing his image as “a man of the people.”
On the other hand, Muriu, the incumbent MP, enjoys strong support in semi-urban and business-oriented wards like Gatanga and Kariara.
Can Wakili Edward Muriu win another term in Gatanga?
His supporters credit him for infrastructure improvements, electrification, and education projects initiated during his tenure. His legal expertise and national connections enhance his image as a competent policymaker capable of attracting both government and investor backing.
Muriu’s business-friendly agenda and alignment with the ruling coalition also contribute to his appeal among the middle class and entrepreneurs.
However, analysts note that he faces challenges reconnecting with rural voters who feel left out of his development initiatives.
The 7 percent undecided voters are mainly concentrated in mixed and semi-urban areas, where political loyalty is shifting.
Their hesitation has been attributed to unmet promises by previous leaders, lack of direct engagement by candidates, and competing livelihood priorities. The survey also found that local church networks and opinion leaders could heavily influence this group before the election.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
