Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has called for patience and sober evaluation as the battle to succeed him in 2027 gains momentum. Speaking during a public event in Bungoma on Monday, August 25, 2025, the outgoing two-term governor said he would reveal his preferred successor when the right time comes. Lusaka cautioned residents against being swayed by early excitement, urging them instead to assess all aspirants using objective criteria such as a SWOT analysis. His remarks come at a time when the race is already drawing attention, with Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa and Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi emerging as the leading contenders.
Lusaka reflected on his own political journey, reminding residents that campaigns, popularity and public celebrations do not necessarily guarantee electoral victory. He cited his 2017 defeat to former governor Wycliffe Wangamati as a lesson in political unpredictability. The governor also dismissed some aspirants as mere participants helping stronger candidates advance, warning voters against choosing leaders based solely on perceived influence. His comments come amid shifting political alignments in the county, particularly after Wanyonyi’s entry into the race, which turned what was initially a calm succession contest into a spirited duel attracting countywide attention.
The growing competition has stirred notable reactions across Bungoma’s political landscape. Leaders who previously backed Barasa, especially from FORD-Kenya, have begun realigning themselves, with some shifting their support to Wanyonyi. Among the most significant changes was Sirisia MP John Waluke’s announcement that he would back the Westlands legislator, even declaring that Wanyonyi would not need to campaign in Sirisia because the constituency was already solidly behind him. These endorsements have intensified debate among residents, raising questions about loyalty, party influence and the evolving power dynamics in the county.
As Bungoma inches closer to the 2027 elections, the succession race is expected to grow even more competitive. Lusaka’s promise to name his successor in due course adds another layer of suspense, with political observers anticipating that his endorsement could significantly sway the county’s political direction. For now, residents are left to weigh the strengths and weaknesses of each contender as Bungoma prepares for one of its most closely watched gubernatorial contests in recent years.