Could Former Cobbler Turn Real Estate Mogul Be Embakasi North’s Next MP?

As the 2027 general elections gather momentum, Embakasi North Constituency in Nairobi County is shaping up as one of the most intriguing political battlegrounds. With sitting MP James Gakuya announcing he will shift focus to the Nairobi governorship race, the parliamentary seat has suddenly become hotly contested — and one unexpected name is fast emerging from the crowd.

That name is Kinyua Wairatu, a household figure in Kenya’s real estate sector, but with roots that trace back to the dusty streets of Dandora. For over a decade, Wairatu worked as a humble shoe cobbler in the area before carving out his success story in business. Now, residents are rallying behind him to take over as their next Member of Parliament.

“We lived with him here. He was humble then, and nothing has changed to date. We want him to be our MP. He is a man who understands our struggles,” says Steve Ogolla, a mechanic based at the Dandora dumpsite.

The dumpsite itself has become a rallying cry. Many residents argue that successive leaders have failed to turn Nairobi’s largest landfill into a source of opportunity.

“Many leaders have promised to help us benefit from this dumpsite, but nothing has ever materialized. With Wairatu, we know things will be different,” remarks Esther Njiko, a long-time Dandora resident.

Though no political party has begun issuing tickets, Wairatu’s candidacy appears attractive across the board. His grassroots story resonates deeply with voters, and residents insist that his appeal goes beyond party lines.

“We will vote for Wairatu no matter which party nominates him. We are looking at his agenda, not the party colors,” asserts Sarah Momanyi.

Unlike many aspirants who parachute into campaigns with ready-made promises, Wairatu has been spending time across the constituency — engaging residents, listening to their grievances, and mapping out solutions. From waste management at the dumpsite, to unemployment, to infrastructure, his strategy is being shaped by the people he hopes to represent.

Embakasi North has long been a constituency that demands authenticity. With a significant youth population, complex socio-economic challenges, and a history of unfulfilled pledges, voters appear ready for a leader who embodies both resilience and relatability.

For Wairatu, the campaign trail is just beginning, but the momentum is undeniable. From cobbling shoes in Dandora to commanding boardrooms in real estate, his journey could now take a new turn — into the chambers of Parliament.