Ex-Citizen TV and NTV Journalist Salim Swaleh Declares Bid for Gilgil MP Seat Ahead of 2027 General Election

Ex-Citizen TV and NTV Journalist Salim Swaleh Declares Bid for Gilgil MP Seat Ahead of 2027 General Election

Former Citizen TV and NTV Swahili news anchor Salim Swaleh has officially announced his intention to contest the Gilgil Constituency parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election, marking his entry into active politics after years in the media and public service.

Swaleh made the announcement on Saturday during the burial ceremony of one of the learners who lost her life in the tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Senior School in Gilgil. The declaration immediately attracted public attention, placing the former journalist among a growing number of Kenyan media personalities transitioning into elective leadership positions.

Addressing mourners, Swaleh said his decision to seek political office was inspired by calls from residents of Gilgil who had urged him to return home and contribute to the area’s development through leadership.

“I have the voice of Gilgil people who have told me to come home. I have made friends during my time in the media and in public service, and they have asked me to bring them here for development,” Swaleh told the gathering.

The former broadcaster added that he would officially launch his political agenda at a later date, noting that the burial ceremony was not the appropriate forum for extensive political discussions.

“For that reason, I will be vying for the Gilgil Constituency seat in the next General Election. But because today is not a day for politics, I will come back later for a forum where we will discuss the kind of Gilgil we want to build together,” he stated.

From Television Screens to Public Service

Swaleh is a familiar face to many Kenyans, having built a successful career as a Swahili journalist and news anchor at leading media houses, including Citizen TV and NTV. During his time in broadcasting, he gained popularity for his fluent delivery, in-depth reporting, and coverage of major national events.

Following his exit from mainstream media, Swaleh joined the public service sector and served as Press Secretary in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi.

His appointment was viewed as a significant transition from journalism to government communications, allowing him to work closely with senior government officials and gain firsthand experience in public administration.

Past Controversies Resurface

Swaleh’s political declaration is likely to revive public interest in the circumstances surrounding his departure from government service in 2024.

At the time, the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary announced that several officials, including Swaleh, had been arrested over allegations linked to fraudulent dealings allegedly conducted within government offices.

According to an official statement issued by Mudavadi’s office, investigators claimed that individuals suspected of engaging in fraudulent activities had been operating from offices linked to some government officials.

“Those arrested include Salim Swaleh, Director of OPCS Press Service, in whose office the swindlers were found nested with fake door switch-nametags,” the statement read in part.

Following the incident, Swaleh was suspended and later charged with criminal offences. However, little information has emerged publicly regarding the progress or outcome of the case, leaving many questions unanswered.

Shortly after his dismissal, Swaleh publicly appealed for forgiveness and requested assistance in rebuilding his career. Since then, he has largely remained out of the public spotlight until his latest political announcement.

Tough Political Battle Ahead

If he proceeds with his candidature, Swaleh is expected to face stiff competition in Gilgil, including the incumbent Member of Parliament Martha Wangari, who is widely expected to defend her seat in the upcoming election.

Political analysts say Swaleh’s background in media and public communication could provide him with a significant advantage in connecting with voters. However, they note that he will need to convince constituents that he possesses the leadership credentials necessary to address local challenges such as unemployment, infrastructure development, education, and access to healthcare.

Growing Trend of Journalists Joining Politics

Swaleh’s announcement comes amid a broader trend of journalists and media personalities seeking elective positions ahead of the 2027 elections.

Several prominent media figures have either declared political ambitions or been linked to potential bids for public office. The trend reflects the growing influence of media personalities in Kenya’s political landscape, where public visibility and communication skills often play a critical role in electoral success.

As preparations for the 2027 General Election gather momentum, all eyes will now be on Gilgil Constituency, where Salim Swaleh hopes to transform his popularity from the newsroom into political support at the ballot box.

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Ex-Citizen TV and NTV Journalist Salim Swaleh Declares Bid for Gilgil MP Seat Ahead of 2027 General Election