The race to succeed Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o in 2027 is gathering momentum, with Kisumu West MP Rozaah Buyu becoming the latest senior politician to declare her bid.
Buyu announced her candidature during a church service in Kisumu, saying she had sought God’s guidance before deciding to contest the county’s top seat.
“I have what it takes to be the third governor of Kisumu. My track record speaks for itself,” she said.
Her entry adds to an already competitive field that includes Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, Senator Tom Ojienda, Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Woman Representative Ruth Odinga and former Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura.
With Prof Nyong’o completing his second and final term, Kisumu is preparing for its first gubernatorial succession without an incumbent in the race. The contest is expected to reshape the county’s political landscape and test whether voters will favour continuity or a new direction.
Beyond personalities
Although the list of aspirants continues to grow, the election is likely to be shaped by broader political questions rather than personalities alone.
The first is who will inherit the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) political machinery in one of the party’s strongest strongholds. The second is whether voters will back continuity after two terms under Nyong’o or demand fresh leadership.
Development records could also become a decisive factor, with candidates expected to campaign on their achievements rather than relying solely on party loyalty. Pre-election alliances and negotiations ahead of ODM nominations are also likely to influence the outcome.
Different paths to the governor’s office
Each contender is entering the race with a distinct political message.
Buyu is presenting herself as an experienced legislator capable of taking the county to its next phase of development.
Owili is expected to campaign on continuity, having served as deputy governor throughout the Nyong’o administration. While his experience offers credibility, he will also have to defend the county government’s record on service delivery.
Senator Tom Ojienda is likely to build his campaign around his national profile and legal expertise, appealing to voters seeking technocratic leadership.
Joshua Oron enters the race with a growing parliamentary profile, while Aduma Owuor is expected to rely on his grassroots support across Nyakach and neighbouring areas.
Former MP Ken Obura has chosen a different route by running as an independent candidate. He argues that political parties often deny voters the opportunity to elect the most qualified leaders and that independent leadership strengthens accountability.
His campaign could test whether independent candidates can gain ground in a county where party affiliation has traditionally played a decisive role.
Ruth Odinga’s economic message
Woman Representative Ruth Odinga has centred her campaign on economic empowerment under the slogan Money in the Pocket.
She has pledged greater support for small businesses, young people, women, persons with disabilities and community self-help groups.
Ruth has also urged voters to judge leaders by their performance rather than party loyalty or campaign incentives, signalling a push towards issue-based politics.
Whether that message resonates with an electorate that has historically voted along party lines remains one of the key questions heading into the election.
Women could shape the contest
The race also places gender politics firmly in the spotlight.
With both Buyu and Ruth Odinga seeking the governorship, women are expected to play a significant role in the campaign. However, the two candidates are pursuing contrasting strategies.
Buyu is highlighting her legislative experience and development record, while Ruth is focusing on livelihoods, economic inclusion and grassroots empowerment.
A defining election for Kisumu
Beyond choosing a new governor, the 2027 election will determine the direction Kisumu takes after Nyong’o’s tenure.
As more aspirants enter the race, political alliances, party nominations and campaign messages are expected to become increasingly important.
