By Duncan Waswa
BUNGOMA, July 11, 2025 — Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi has emerged as a frontrunner in the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race, securing endorsements from eight of nine Bungoma MPs and 58 Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) at a high-profile meeting at Wanangali Sports Club in Kanduyi on July 2, 2025. The unified backing signals a shift toward merit-based leadership, sidelining party loyalty in favor of Wanyonyi’s proven track record.
Sirisia MP John Waluke, leading the Western MPs caucus, praised Wanyonyi’s transformative work in Nairobi, citing infrastructure upgrades and youth empowerment initiatives. “Bungoma needs a governor with integrity and results, not just party allegiance. Tim Wanyonyi is that leader,” Waluke said, joined by MPs Jack Wamboka (Bumula), Martin Wanyonyi (Webuye East), John Chikati (Tongaren), Dan Wanyama (Webuye West), John Makali (Kanduyi), Majimbo Kalasinga (Kabuchai), and Fred Kapondi (Mt Elgon) . Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, a rival candidate, skipped the meeting.
Bungoma County Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Nyongesa hailed Wanyonyi’s inclusive approach. “His leadership transcends party lines, engaging all for progress. Bungoma’s potential demands such a vision,” Nyongesa said, echoing sentiments from the 58 MCAs, including all 45 elected and 13 nominated members. The endorsements counter Barasa’s ambitions, with social media buzzing: “Tim Wanyonyi will win flat!” posted @KinyanBoy, while @MKMadoka_ called it an “easy choice”.
Wanyonyi, speaking at the Kanduyi event, accepted the endorsement with resolve. “I’m not here as Moses Wetang’ula’s brother but as a leader with a record. Westlands thrives due to my focus on healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Bungoma deserves the same,” he said, dismissing familial ties to the National Assembly Speaker. He launched the #SiMimiNiSisi campaign—“It’s not about me, it’s about us”—to unite communities for inclusive development.
The race, set to replace Governor Ken Lusaka after his final term, pits Wanyonyi against Barasa, former Governor Wycliffe Wangamati, and businessman Zacharia Barasa. Wanyonyi’s ODM affiliation, strained by Nairobi’s 2022 gubernatorial politics, may see him run independently, potentially reshaping Bungoma’s political landscape. Critics like Barasa, a UDA ally, face challenges as Wanyonyi’s coalition grows.
Wanyonyi’s Nairobi record—securing Ksh 54 million for education and championing stricter construction regulations—bolsters his appeal. “I’ve held consultative meetings with Bungoma leaders and my party. My home county’s needs drive me,” he said. However, Barasa’s vocal UDA support and Wangamati’s past governance experience ensure a heated contest.
The #SiMimiNiSisi slogan resonates with voters frustrated by party-driven politics. “Bungoma won’t fall as we watch,” Waluke emphasized, noting plans to rally MCAs further. Social media reflects this momentum, with @HE_DonJay predicting Barasa will “see fire”. Yet, concerns linger about ODM’s influence, with some alleging Wetang’ula’s reluctance stems from Barasa’s financial ties.