Two high-ranking professionals are challenging 71-year-old seasoned politician and former Cabinet minister Nyiva Mwendwa for the Kitui county Women's Representative seat.

Winnie Kitetu is a consultant clinical psychologist and Jane Mwende Kibati a masters degree holder in disaster management.

The former Culture and Social Services minister will also face gospel singer and evangelist Peace Mulu.

Although Nyiva is an old hand in politics, having been elected to parliament for the first time in 1974, she may have to contend with the issue of her age being raised by her rivals.

At a meeting in Matinyani Primary School in September, Nyiva said her age did not amount to inability to perform.

At the function attended by Wiper leader Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, she said no one should write her off as she was still a worthy and dependable leader.

"They are accusing me of being a spent force but despite that, I managed to deliver the civic seat for the Wiper party. I beat them even as they bragged they are young and agile. That is prove enough that I am still capable of serving effectively if you electe me," Nyiva said.

The function was to celebrate the win by the Wiper candidate Antony Kyalo Muthui at the September 17 Kilimani/Matinyani/ Mutulu ward by-election.

Muthui beat Narc party's Kali Wambua by 1176 votes to 1106 votes.