NAIROBI, Kenya- Sammy Douglas Kamau Waweru has officially been sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Ol Kalou, marking a historic milestone for the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) as it secured its first seat in the National Assembly.
Waweru took the oath of office at Parliament Buildings on Tuesday, days after the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) gazetted his election following the July 16 by-election in Nyandarua County.
The swearing-in formally allows him to assume legislative duties and represent Ol Kalou Constituency in Parliament.
Before the ceremony, Waweru attracted public attention by travelling to Nairobi in a public service matatu instead of using a convoy, a move that supporters described as a reflection of his grassroots style of leadership.
Images of the journey quickly circulated on social media.
Waweru won the closely watched by-election on a DCP ticket after garnering 35,440 votes, comfortably defeating United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate Samuel Muchina Nyagah, who received 5,450 votes.
The contest was widely seen as a key political test ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The Ol Kalou by-election drew national attention after weeks of intense campaigns involving senior leaders from both the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition and the opposition. The poll was also marred by allegations of voter bribery, intimidation and violence, with journalists and observers reporting attacks at several polling stations.
Waweru’s victory handed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s DCP its first elected parliamentary seat since the party’s formation, strengthening the opposition outfit’s presence ahead of the 2027 elections.
Following the swearing-in, Waweru is expected to take up his role in the National Assembly, where he has pledged to champion development, improve public services and represent the interests of Ol Kalou residents
