Bungoma MPs endorse Tim Wanyonyi for 2027 gubernatorial race

Westlands MP Timothy Wanyonyi has been endorsed for the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race by several MPs from the county. [File, Standard]

The 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race has taken a decisive twist after eight Members of Parliament from the county endorsed Westlands MP Timothy Wanyonyi as their preferred candidate to succeed outgoing Governor Kenneth Lusaka.

In a show of political unity, the MPs declared their support for Wanyonyi, an ODM lawmaker with deep roots in Bungoma, signaling a potential shift in the county's political dynamics ahead of the next general election.

The endorsement was led by Sirisia MP and Western Parliamentary Caucus Chairperson John Waluke, who praised Wanyonyi's integrity, leadership experience, and development track record both in Nairobi and back home in Bungoma.

"We want Bungoma to be led by someone with a clean track record, someone who has shown the ability to serve diligently and transparently. Timothy Wanyonyi is that person," Waluke stated.

He emphasized Wanyonyi's consistent investment in youth empowerment, education, and small businesses across the county. Waluke also revealed that a meeting with Bungoma's MCAs was in the works to rally broader support for Wanyonyi's bid.

The group of MPs backing Wanyonyi includes Jack Wamboka (Bumula), Martin Pepela (Webuye East), John Chikati (Tongaren), Dan Wanyama (Webuye West), John Makali (Kanduyi), Majimbo Kalasinga (Kabuchai), and Fred Kapondi (Mt Elgon).

The endorsement deals a significant blow to Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, who has long positioned himself as a frontrunner for the gubernatorial seat. Known for his dramatic campaign tactics and strong media presence, Barasa had been banking on the support of Governor Lusaka and Ford Kenya party leader Moses Wetang'ula.

Barasa's aggressive ground campaigns and political branding have made him a formidable contender, but the MPs' unified backing of Wanyonyi introduces a serious challenge to his ambitions.

Political analyst Isaac Wanjecheke sees the endorsement as a major shift in Bungoma's power balance.

"This is a clear message that local leadership is rallying behind Wanyonyi. It shifts the momentum away from Barasa and toward a more coalition-based candidacy," he observed.

Though Wanyonyi has represented Westlands Constituency in Nairobi for several terms, his connection to Bungoma is both personal and practical. Born in the county and having invested in numerous development projects in the region, Wanyonyi has maintained a strong local presence.

His initiatives include youth employment programs, educational support schemes, and community development investments efforts that have earned him recognition and grassroots support across Bungoma.

Wanjecheke also noted that Wanyonyi's potential shift from Nairobi to Bungoma politics could ease political tension in the capital, where he was previously seen as a possible challenger to Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja.

As Governor Lusaka prepares to exit the stage after completing his second and final term, Bungoma is now bracing for a high-stakes gubernatorial showdown. Wanyonyi's entry, backed by a strong coalition of MPs, sets the stage for a contest shaped by alliances, party strength, development records, and personal appeal.

While Barasa's camp has taken a hit, political observers note that the race is far from over. With the 2027 General Election still two years away, more realignments are expected as the battle for Bungoma's top seat intensifies.

Timothy Wanyonyi has however entered the race with a powerful endorsement and the full attention of Bungoma's political establishment.