Ottichilo rules out new elective bid as gubernatorial term nears end

Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo has reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people even after completing his second and final term as Governor of Vihiga county, saying his main focus is to leave behind strong governance systems that will benefit residents beyond his tenure.

Speaking during an interview on the Radio 47 breakfast show on Thursday morning, Ottichilo reflected on his leadership journey, noting that he served for 10 years as member of Parliament for Emuhaya constituency before his current 10-year stint as governor.

The Governor said that, having served both in Parliament and in the county executive, he does not see the need to seek another parliamentary seat, including the Senate. He added that the only higher elective position he would be interested in is the presidency, but he currently has neither the interest nor the capacity to pursue it.

“I do not feel there is a need for me to run for the senatorial seat because it is still a parliamentary role, and I believe I already discharged my duties well when I served as MP for Emuhaya,” he said.

Ottichilo said he does not have a preferred candidate for the Vihiga gubernatorial seat in the forthcoming elections, emphasising that leadership decisions should be left to the electorate.

He noted that his priority is to ensure the county government has effective and sustainable systems in place so that his successor will find a well-functioning administration.

“I want to leave the county running with systems that are working so that whoever takes over finds a stable government,” he said.

The Governor added that he still has the energy and willingness to continue serving the community in other capacities after leaving office.

On political matters, Ottichilo reiterated that his party, the Orange Democratic Movement, remains united and continues to cooperate with the national government under the broad-based arrangement, noting that any internal disagreements would be resolved through consultations.

Regarding the 2027 General Election, he said his decision on whether to support President William Ruto would be guided by the position taken by his party after consultations among members.

He said he would abide by the party’s decision.