Gay rights man eyes Kiambu seat

• Mr David Kuria recognises that his sexual orientation may be an extra challenge in the already competitive political sphere.
• He holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from the University of Nairobi.
• Going against the advice of many to marry, he hopes that voters will interpret his openness about his sexual orientation as honesty.

The first openly gay man to run for office is drawing attention to Kiambu County by running for the senate seat.

Mr David Kuria recognises that his sexual orientation may be an extra challenge in the already competitive political sphere.

“People may not see beyond the issue of sexual orientation and listen to my agenda” he admitted to the Nation.

He holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from the University of Nairobi.

Going against the advice of many to marry, he hopes that voters will interpret his openness about his sexual orientation as honesty.

Mr Kuria hopes that the discrimination he has faced will allow him to better represent others in the society who are marginalised.

The 40-year-old has developed a campaign platform focusing on reforming laws and other structural barriers that prevent access to HIV services and fighting poverty.