Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi has declared his intention to run for the Bungoma gubernatorial seat in 2027, marking a significant shift from his earlier ambitions for Nairobi’s top county position.
Wanyonyi, a brother to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, now enters a crowded race to succeed Governor Kenneth Lusaka, who is serving his second and final term.
His entry pits him against notable figures including Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa and former Governor Wycliffe Wangamati.
The announcement has caused ripples in the region, particularly among local political players.
MP Didmus Barasa, a staunch ally of President William Ruto and a leading contender under the UDA banner, has dismissed Wanyonyi’s bid as “political suicide,” claiming the ODM legislator lacks grassroots support in Bungoma.
Barasa has criticized MPs and MCAs backing Wanyonyi, labeling them as political opportunists. At a recent rally, Barasa accused them of being financially motivated:
“They’ve conned other aspirants before. They tried the same with me but got little. They’ll milk him dry and eventually return to my side,” he alleged.
Despite the criticism, Wanyonyi’s candidacy has received a boost from key Ford-Kenya leaders. His endorsement has been championed by Tongaren MP and Ford-Kenya Secretary General John Chikati, Bungoma Woman Representative Catherine Wambilianga, and County Assembly Majority Leader Joseph Nyongesa, among others.
Wanyonyi’s shift to Bungoma politics follows his unsuccessful bid to secure the ODM ticket for Nairobi’s governorship, signaling a new chapter in his political journey and altering the dynamics of Bungoma’s succession race.
Other hopefuls in the race include Zacharia Barasa (DAP-K), businessman Allan Fwamba, Sophie Waliuala, and former Governor Wangamati.
