Salim Swaleh Announces 2027 Gilgil MP Bid
Another familiar face from Kenyan television is heading into politics. Specifically, former Citizen TV and NTV Swahili news anchor Salim Swaleh has declared his interest in vying for the Gilgil parliamentary seat in 2027. Furthermore, he made the announcement during the burial of one of the Utumishi Girls’ fire victims in Gilgil.
Why He’s Running
Swaleh framed his decision as a response to public pressure. Specifically, he stated that constituents had personally asked him to return home and represent them.
Furthermore, he said he intends to bring development opportunities built through his media and public service connections back to Gilgil.
Additionally, he confirmed he would hold a future forum to discuss Gilgil’s development vision in more detail. However, he did not state which political party he would run under, or whether he would contest as an independent.
His Controversial Exit From Government
Swaleh’s journey to this announcement has not been smooth. Specifically, after leaving television, he served as press secretary in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary under Musalia Mudavadi from 2022 to 2024.
Furthermore, he was arrested in June 2024 alongside other officials following allegations that their offices were rented out to fraudsters using fake door nametags to deceive victims. Consequently, he was suspended and charged with criminal offences.
Additionally, he later publicly appealed to Mudavadi for forgiveness and asked for job opportunities, before largely disappearing from public view.
Who He’s Up Against
The Gilgil seat is not vacant. Specifically, current MP Martha Wangari is likely to defend her seat in 2027. Therefore, Swaleh will need to build a campaign capable of unseating an incumbent.
Part of a Bigger Trend
Swaleh is not alone in this career shift. Specifically, he joins a growing list of media personalities moving into politics, including Tina Ogal, Lulu Hassan, Mwanahamisi Hamadi and Willis Raburu.
Consequently, Kenya’s 2027 ballot could feature more familiar broadcast voices than ever before.
