Lobbying is intensifying over Kenya Seed Company’s vacant chair role after Purity Ngirici’s resignation, with Bernard Wambwa and Martin Ngomat among names floated.
The scramble to fill Kenya Seed Company’s vacant chair post is moving fast, as political and local interests collide.
Purity Ngirici stepped down as chairperson to focus on her bid for the Kirinyaga gubernatorial seat, leaving the leadership slot open and triggering intense lobbying for a replacement.
In this context, the race for Kenya Seed Company chair is not just about internal appointments, but also about who residents believe should represent them.
Names being discussed include former Trans-Nzoia senator Michael Mbito, while residents from Trans-Nzoia are pushing for a local to be appointed to the vacancy.. At the same time, campaigning around the board’s decision-making has also drawn attention, with members said to be working around the clock.
Meanwhile, Misryoum understands that within the Kenya Seed Company board, director-level consultations have narrowed to a preferred candidate: Bernard Wambwa.. The reports say Wambwa has been backed due to his close political ties, including a connection described as linking him directly to President William Ruto.
That matters because chairmanship can influence direction and priorities at the company, making the identity of the appointee a sensitive political question.
Wambwa is described as having previously sought elective office, including a bid in the 2022 General Elections that did not succeed.. He was later appointed to the board after that failed attempt, and Misryoum reports indicate his selection is the product of extensive internal discussions among directors.
Another candidate gaining support is former Kenya Seed Company researcher Martin Ngomat. Residents warning against outsiders taking the role have argued that Ngomat, who served for one term between 2017 and 2022 and has since stayed out of active politics, should be given the seat.
In particular, supporters cite his background and expertise, framing him as better placed to advance the company through industry knowledge.
As the leadership decision looms, the race for Kenya Seed Company chair continues to highlight the balancing act between national political connections and local expectations at the county level, an issue likely to stay in the spotlight as momentum builds.