From Tuga Tai to Winchit and Now Chopait: How Governor Stephen Sang Keeps Reinventing Himself Ahead of 2027

A cunning politician he is! Nandi Governor Stephen Sang has perfected the art of shedding political baggage and reinventing himself after every electoral cycle. His ability to adapt, rebrand, and stay relevant has kept him at the heart of Nandi politics for over a decade.

Stephen Sang, could he be eyeing Aldai seat in 2027?

The Rise of a Political Prodigy

When Sang first entered the political arena, few believed he could take on political giant Henry Kosgey. Yet in 2013, at just 28 years old, he floored Kosgey to clinch the Senate seat, becoming Kenya’s youngest Senator in the inaugural Senate.

In 2017, history repeated itself. Once again, he humbled Henry Kosge, this time in the gubernatorial race, emerging as the youngest Governor in Kenya at 32 years old. By the time he completes his mandatory two terms in 2027, Sang will be just 42, far too young to retire from public life.

The Aldai Whispers

Political murmurs across Nandi suggest that Sang’s eyes may now be fixed on the Aldai Constituency parliamentary seat, currently held by Hon. Marianne Kitany. If true, this could set up a high-stakes political clash, given Kitany’s strong grassroots presence and reputation as a fierce legislator.

Recent Maskani polls indicate that Sang enjoys a comfortable lead in Aldai, positioning him as a possible successor. His entry would no doubt complicate the race and reshape the constituency’s political landscape.

The Power of Rebranding

Part of Sang’s political survival has been his ability to rebrand with every election cycle.

In 2017, his rallying call was “Tuga Tai”, a slogan that resonated deeply with Nandi voters and propelled him to victory.

In 2022, he switched to “Winchit”—slang for “winch”—suggesting he could pull his competitors out of the way. The slogan worked, helping him overcome a tough battle against lawyer Allan Kosgey.

Now, whispers suggest Sang is rebranding once again under the nickname “Chopait” (slang for “chopper”), a signal that his political journey is far from over.

Though he has not publicly declared his interest in Aldai, neither has he denied the speculation. Close allies continue to hint at his possible run.

Breaking Records Again?

If Sang successfully transitions from Governor to MP, he would set yet another political milestone, becoming one of the few Kenyan leaders to serve as a Senator, Governor, and Member of the National Assembly before the age of 45.

Whether or not he secures Aldai, Sang has already carved his name in Kenya’s political history as a record-breaking leader. The question now is not whether he will run, but rather, whether he can pull off another historic victory.