Which way Western Kenya? Region could decide 2027 poll or remain sleeping giant

As Kenya edges closer to the 2027 General Election, Western Kenya has once again emerged as a decisive political battleground. With more than 2.6 million registered voters across Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia, Vihiga, and Trans Nzoia counties, the region has enough numerical weight to influence a presidential contest. Yet, despite its potential, Western Kenya approaches the next election deeply fragmented, internally divided, and uncertain about converting its numbers into lasting national power.