A recent Timely Kenya survey indicates that Meru Governor Isaac Mutuma is currently leading the race for the 2027 gubernatorial election, positioning him as the frontrunner in a closely contested political competition.The survey shows Mutuma commanding 36.8% support among likely voters, placing him ahead of former governor Peter Munya, who follows with 32.2%.Former Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi ranks third with 22.3%, while J.R.Kinoti trails with 9%.The poll, conducted between June 25 and July 1, sampled 1,211 respondents across four counties, including 545 interviews within Meru.

Researchers described Meru as one of the most competitive counties in the study, noting that the gap between the top two candidates remains narrow, suggesting the race is still open and could shift depending on political alliances and voter mobilisation in the coming months.

At constituency level, Mutuma leads in five out of nine constituencies, including Igembe Central, Igembe South, Igembe North, Imenti North, and South Imenti.His strongest performance is in Igembe South with 67.7% support.

On the other hand, Peter Munya dominates in Buuri, Tigania West, Tigania East, and Central Imenti, showing a strong regional split in voter preference.

The survey highlights that Mutuma’s advantage is partly driven by strong regional sentiment in the Igembe region, where some voters feel it is their turn to hold the governorship.Additionally, opposition fragmentation is seen as benefiting the incumbent by splitting votes among rivals.

Other races in Meru, including senatorial and woman representative contests, also appear competitive, with no clear overwhelming lead in those positions.