Citizen TV Reporter John Wanyama Quits Journalism to Join Malava MP Race
“After careful consideration, I have decided to resign from my position to pursue a new path in public service by vying for the position of Member of Parliament for Malava,” Wanyama said
John Wanyama’s transition from the Citizen TV newsroom to the political arena as he prepares to contest for the Malava Constituency parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Former Uasin Gishu-based Citizen TV journalist eyes Malava parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election
By Hubzmedia Reporter
A familiar face on Citizen TV’s news coverage in the North Rift is set to make a transition from the newsroom to the political arena after Royal Media Services journalist and cameraman John Wanyama resigned to pursue the Malava Constituency parliamentary seat in the 2027 General Election.
Wanyama, who has been based in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, formally tendered his resignation from Royal Media Services in a letter dated July 3, 2026, ending an 11-year career with the media house that began in September 2015.
In his resignation letter, Wanyama said his decision followed careful consideration and was motivated by a desire to serve the public in a different capacity.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to resign from my position to pursue a new path in public service by vying for the position of Member of Parliament for Malava,” Wanyama said.
The journalist said his years in the media had given him a deeper understanding of the challenges facing ordinary citizens and inspired him to seek a direct role in leadership and public policy.
According to Wanyama, his political ambitions are driven by a desire to participate in the legislative process and contribute to the implementation and oversight of policies affecting the people of Malava Constituency.
“I have made this decision out of a desire to serve my community in a different capacity and contribute to the legislative and development agenda affecting the people,” he said.
An End of an 11-Year Media Career
Wanyama described his time at Royal Media Services as both rewarding and professionally fulfilling, saying the newsroom provided him with an opportunity to tell impactful stories and interact closely with communities across the country.
“I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to grow as a journalist, tell impactful stories and contribute to the organisation’s mission,” he said.
He also thanked his colleagues and the management of Royal Media Services for their support throughout his career.
“I appreciate the support and guidance I have received from my colleagues and the management team throughout my tenure.”
Wanyama further expressed gratitude to Royal Media Services Chairman S.K. Macharia, Vice Chairperson M.K. Macharia, and the company’s management for their leadership during his time at the organisation.
The outgoing journalist said he would ensure a smooth transition during his notice period by completing outstanding assignments and formally handing over company equipment and responsibilities.
“I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition during the notice period and will complete any pending assignments while handing over my responsibilities and all company equipment in an organised and timely manner,” Wanyama noted.
Battle for Malava Seat Looms
Wanyama is now expected to join the increasingly competitive race for the Malava Constituency parliamentary seat in Kakamega County, which is currently held by David Ndakwa.
Ndakwa won the seat in a by-election following the death of former MP Moses Malulu Injendi, setting the stage for another closely watched contest as political aspirants position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Wanyama is yet to formally unveil the political party under which he intends to contest the seat or launch his official campaign.
His entry adds a new dimension to the race, with the former journalist likely to rely on his years of interaction with communities and experience covering public affairs as he seeks to convince Malava voters to elect him to the National Assembly.
From Newsroom to Politics
Wanyama’s resignation also highlights the growing movement of media practitioners seeking elective office ahead of the 2027 polls.
Journalists transitioning into politics often face heightened scrutiny over the need to maintain professional independence and avoid conflicts of interest while still actively employed in the media.
The Media Council of Kenya has previously emphasised the importance of clear professional boundaries for journalists intending to venture into active politics, particularly during the sensitive election period when media independence and public confidence in news coverage are under close scrutiny.
Wanyama’s formal exit from the newsroom clears the way for him to openly pursue his political ambitions as he prepares for what could be one of the defining transitions of his career—from reporting on leaders to seeking an opportunity to become one.
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