Kenyan freestyle skater Kevin Kiarie Ruhiu has reaffirmed his intention to contest the Roysambu parliamentary seat on a Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) ticket in the August 10, 2027 General Election.
In a statement on Monday, October 12, 2026, Kiarie said his campaign would focus on youth empowerment, improved support for athletes and development projects in the Nairobi constituency.
“There are plenty of opportunities for our youths here in Kenya more than anywhere else in the world and I shall stand to defend my fellow athletes without fear,” he said, according to TUKO.co.ke.
Kiarie also pledged to strengthen representation for Roysambu residents, saying he wanted to give the constituency a stronger voice in Parliament. His declaration comes as political activity gathers pace ahead of the 2027 polls, with aspirants positioning themselves around issues including employment, public services and local development.
Kiarie has linked his political ambitions to challenges facing young people and athletes, particularly access to opportunities and support for international competition. He gained attention in April 2026 after winning gold in the freestyle battle category and silver in classic slalom at the International Skating Challenge in Cotonou, Benin.
Speaking to Daily Nation after the competition, Kiarie expressed hope that his performance would help him secure government assistance for future events.
“I hope that after my performance in Benin they will fund me because I have proved my potential,” he said.
His experience has also drawn attention to concerns over funding for athletes in less prominent sporting disciplines.
In April, Sports Ministry Director of Sports Caroline Amondi told Daily Nation that Kiarie had not sought ministry funding for the Benin competition. She said support for athletes in individual sports could be considered through eligible federations, subject to performance and the availability of funds. Kiarie has since criticised what he considers inadequate support for athletes. He has not yet outlined specific legislative proposals for reforming sports funding if elected.
Kiarie is seeking the seat in a constituency expected to attract candidates from several political parties and independent aspirants.
Other reported contenders include incumbent MP Augustine Kamande Kamau of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), former MP Isaac Waihenya Ndirangu of DCP and nominated MP Sabina Chege of the Jubilee Party. Moses Mwenda and Dr Faith Mwaura have also been reported as potential contenders, alongside social media personality Raymond Omosa, popularly known as Kenyan Prince.
The final list of candidates will depend on party nominations and the formal electoral process.
Kiarie’s campaign is built around youth opportunities, sports governance and community development. However, his declaration did not provide detailed policy proposals, funding plans or timelines for delivering the promised changes.
As the election approaches, his challenge will be to translate those priorities into specific proposals addressing the needs of Roysambu residents.