Former Nairobi Women Representative aspirant Millicent Omanga has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the race for Nairobi Women Representative, according to a new Ipsos Public Affairs survey that places her far ahead of her closest competitors.

The poll shows Omanga commanding 49 percent support among respondents, nearly three times the backing of incumbent Esther Passaris, who trails in second place with 17 percent.

Businesswoman and politician Karen Nyamu comes third with 10 percent, while Tabitha Mutinda follows with 7 percent. Crystal Asige garnered 5 percent, ahead of Hanifa Adan at 4 percent and Maverick Aoko at 2 percent. A further 6 percent of respondents remained undecided.

The survey, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs, used a self-response method in which respondents entered their preferred candidate directly into interviewers’ smartphones, a measure the pollster said was intended to enhance the reliability and confidentiality of responses.

Political analysts say the findings signal a potentially major shift in Nairobi’s political landscape ahead of the next General Election, with Omanga appearing to have consolidated significant support across the capital.

The results are likely to intensify political activity within Nairobi, as rivals seek to close the gap and strengthen their visibility among voters in the coming months.

For incumbent Passaris, the poll presents a significant challenge as she seeks to defend her seat against a growing field of contenders. Meanwhile, Nyamu, Mutinda, Asige and other aspirants will be looking to capitalize on the still-fluid political environment and the undecided vote.

With more than a year before the expected election campaigns reach full momentum, the survey offers an early indication of voter sentiment, though political observers note that alliances, party nominations and campaign dynamics could still significantly alter the race.

More to follow…