Royal Media Services (RMS) could be facing a major shake-up ahead of the 2027 General Election, with several of its high-profile journalists reportedly preparing to leave the newsroom and plunge into politics.
The media giant, which operates some of Kenya’s most influential television and radio platforms, may lose a number of familiar faces as journalists who have spent years building careers in broadcasting turn their attention to elective politics.
At least eight prominent names associated with RMS’ flagship platforms have reportedly shown interest in seeking political office in the 2027 polls.
Their possible transition from journalism to politics has already sparked interest, given the huge audiences and public trust many of the journalists have built over the years.
Among those linked to political ambitions are:
1. Trevor Ombija
Citizen TV senior news anchor Trevor Ombija is reportedly considering a bid for the Nyakach parliamentary seat in 2027.
Ombija has been one of the recognisable faces on Citizen TV, having spent more than eight years at the station. His extensive experience in journalism and years of interacting with political leaders and members of the public could provide him with a strong platform should he formally enter the race.
His potential move would mark a significant shift from interrogating politicians on television to becoming one himself.
2. Tina Ogal
Citizen Radio head Tina Ogal has also activated her political ambitions, formally joining the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) on April 28 during an event at Chungwa House.
The veteran broadcaster, who has spent more than two decades in Kenyan radio, has reportedly expressed interest in contesting the Embakasi East parliamentary seat.
Ogal would be seeking to turn her extensive media experience and strong public profile into political capital as she attempts to connect with voters beyond the microphone.
Her long career in broadcasting has given her considerable experience engaging audiences, a skill that could become crucial on the campaign trail.
3. John Wanyama
Citizen TV reporter John Wanyama has already taken a major step towards his political ambitions.
The journalist resigned from RMS to pursue the Malava parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
His resignation letter, submitted on July 3 and taking effect on August 4, was formally accepted by the company’s human resources department.
Wanyama joined RMS in 2015 and rose to become a senior correspondent covering Uasin Gishu. In his resignation, he reportedly expressed gratitude to RMS chairman S.K. Macharia, vice chair Mrs Macharia and managing director Wachira Waruru for their mentorship.
He also pledged to facilitate a smooth handover before leaving the company.
4. Mwanahamisi Hamadi
Another familiar face associated with Citizen TV, Kiswahili news anchor Mwanahamisi Hamadi, has also signalled an interest in making the transition from journalism to politics.
Hamadi has been linked to a possible bid for the Likoni parliamentary seat in 2027.
Speaking at a rally on May 10, she criticised current political leaders for what she described as neglect of residents and accused politicians of taking advantage of voters during election campaigns.
She called for what she termed a “new dawn” for Likoni and promised to give the constituency a stronger voice.
Hamadi also emphasised inclusion, particularly for residents who are not originally from the area, while rejecting discrimination in leadership.
A newsroom-to-politics trend
The potential departures come at a time when Kenyan journalists continue to demonstrate growing interest in elective politics.
For years, news anchors and reporters have enjoyed direct access to millions of Kenyans through television and radio, building public profiles that politicians often spend years trying to establish.
However, moving from the newsroom to the political arena comes with a completely different set of challenges.
Should the RMS journalists proceed with their respective bids, the 2027 election could see voters choosing between familiar media personalities and established political figures in several constituencies.
For RMS, the development could equally trigger a significant talent reshuffle, particularly if more senior broadcasters decide to exchange microphones, cameras and newsrooms for campaign rallies, political meetings and ballot papers.
With the 2027 General Election drawing closer, the big question is no longer simply who will be covering the elections—but which journalists will be making the news by becoming candidates themselves.
