The battle to fill the vacant Baringo Senate seat has gained momentum, with a wave of youthful candidates challenging seasoned politicians for the coveted United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket.

Following the death of Senator William Cheptumo, at least eight young contenders have stepped forward, determined to break the dominance of veteran leaders. Among them are Daniel Kiptoo, Wycliffe Tobole, Victor Sumukwo Chepkunur, Linus Kamket, Vincent Chemitei, Felix Kiprono Chelaite, Emanuel Ngetuny, and Evans Bett Mundulel.

But they face stiff competition from political veterans such as Silas Tochim, Isaiah Kirukmet, Reuben Chepsongol, and former Labour Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui all seeking to ride the UDA wave into office.

The race has also drawn interest from former Baringo Senator and KANU chairman Gideon Moi, who is yet to officially declare his bid but has made notable public appearances. Also in the mix is Gilbert Malema, a fierce critic of the Kenya Kwanza regime, though his party of choice remains unclear.

Youthful hopefuls have taken to the campaign trail across Baringo, rallying support and promoting a shift in leadership. Daniel Kiptoo, campaigning under the banner of “Unity, Accountability and Prosperity,” says the time for youth leadership is now not tomorrow. He pledges to champion youth and women empowerment, expand bursary support, and enhance access to technical training.

Kiptoo also aims to link young people with job opportunities and mentorship through strategic partnerships. “Baringo’s natural wealth and resilient spirit are being held back by recurring challenges,” he said.

Wycliffe Tobole has put security at the center of his agenda, citing persistent insecurity as a major obstacle to progress. He vows to push for increased funding for peace initiatives and community policing.

Victor Chepkunur, who hails from banditry-affected Bartabwa in Baringo North, says his personal experiences have fueled his resolve to seek office. He promises to lobby for legislation compensating victims of insecurity and restoring affected communities.

Their campaign has received backing from youth leaders, including Billy Yatich, who emphasized the energy and innovation that young leaders bring to the table. “If given the chance, the youth can drive transformative change,” Yatich said.

The race has intensified with the entry of outspoken Kenya Kwanza ally Reuben Chepsongol. A former Bartabwa MCA and current KVDA director, Chepsongol believes his deep-rooted knowledge of the region’s issues makes him the best candidate.

“I’ll priorities uniting local leaders to collectively address insecurity and push for sustainable, homegrown solutions,” he said.

Isaiah Kirukmet, who came second to Cheptumo in the 2022 UDA primaries with 45,681 votes, is also back in the race. He believes his previous performance and commitment to Baringo’s progress place him in a strong position to lead.

Former Tenges MCA Silas Tochim, now Director of the Tourism Fund, is pitching his candidacy on development, citing tourism as an untapped goldmine that could transform Baringo’s economy.

Simon Chelugui, who lost to Gideon Moi in 2017, has yet to confirm his bid but is actively engaging constituents, fueling speculation about a comeback.

Gideon Moi, who served as senator from 2013 to 2022, is also said to be eyeing a return to the seat he lost to Cheptumo. While he hasn't made a formal declaration, his renewed visibility suggests political intentions.

The upcoming by-election is shaping up to be a litmus test for UDA’s grip on Baringo and the wider Rift Valley, with KANU positioning itself for a political resurgence.

The late Cheptumo, a close ally of President Ruto and a three-term MP for Baringo North, died in February 2025 after a brief illness, leaving behind a competitive race and a legacy that both young and old aspirants hope to build upon.