Led by Mary Temas, mother to the fallen lawmaker, the family announced on Wednesday that they are rallying behind Leguta, who they believe can carry forward Ng’eno’s legacy and safeguard the interests of the community.
The decision comes just days after the sudden withdrawal of Ng’eno’s wife, Nayanoi Ng’eno, from the contest, a move that stunned local political observers and reshaped the race dynamics.
Speaking during a press briefing in Eldoret, Temas described Leguta as a seasoned leader with deep roots in the region, saying he has the experience needed to steer Emurua Dikirr through its development agenda.
“After careful consultations and prayers, we believe Robert Leguta is the right candidate to continue the work that my son began. We ask all supporters to unite behind him for the good of our people,” Temas said.
Leguta, a former legislator and influential community figure, welcomed the endorsement, pledging to honour the late MP’s vision and to champion key issues affecting pastoralist communities.
In his remarks, he vowed to focus on improved access to water, education, healthcare and security, issues he said were close to Ng’eno’s heart during his time in Parliament.
“I am humbled by the trust the Ng’eno family has placed in me. I pledge to serve with integrity and to build on the foundation that Johana laid,” Leguta told journalists.
Political analysts say the endorsement could significantly boost Leguta’s chances, especially given Ng’eno’s popularity and strong grassroots following in the constituency.
Emurua Dikirr, a Jubilee stronghold, is set for a hotly‑contested by‑election after Ng’eno’s untimely death in December last year left a vacuum in local leadership.
Other candidates have already declared their intentions to run, setting the stage for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive race in one of Kenya’s key pastoralist regions.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has set the by‑election for later this month, with campaigns now entering a crucial phase.