MP Barasa declares bid for Bungoma governor

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa speaks at Nasianda market in Bumula constituency during a rally with his supporters on April 10, 2026 /HILTON OTENYO

Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has declared his bid for the Bungoma gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election on a UDA ticket, setting the stage for a high-stakes political contest.

Barasa, an ally of President William Ruto, joins a crowded field that includes Westlands MP Timothy Wanyonyi, former governor Wycliffe Wangamati and businessman Zachariah Barasa.

Wangamati is seeking to reclaim the seat he lost to current governor Kenneth Lusaka in 2022, while Wanyonyi is banking on his development record in Westlands as he shifts his political base to Bungoma.

Lusaka, who is serving his second and final term, is leading Ruto’s re-election campaigns in the Western region, a role that has reportedly put him at odds with Ford Kenya leader Moses Wetang’ula.

Barasa’s entry marks a shift, having previously hinted he would vie under Ford Kenya. Meanwhile, Wanyonyi, who is Wetang’ula’s younger brother, is expected to chart his own political path, potentially as an independent candidate.

The Bungoma governor seat has remained under Ford Kenya since the advent of devolution, raising questions on whether UDA can wrest control from the party.

Analysts say the race will likely be shaped by sugar politics, party loyalties and individual candidates’ track records.

“The election is expected to be closely contested, with candidates navigating complex alliances and rivalries,” said political commentator Isaac Wanjekeche.

Speaking at a rally in Nasianda market, Bumula constituency, Barasa said his decision to run on a UDA ticket followed wide consultations across the county.

“I have made a firm decision to run for governor so that I can transform Bungoma, especially the health sector, which has suffered for too long,” he said.

He said residents, opinion leaders and youth groups had urged him to remain in the ruling party and use its platform to advance his agenda.

Barasa also rallied support for President Ruto’s re-election, citing development gains in the region.

“Come 2027, re-elect President Ruto for a second term. We can see and feel what he has done for this region,” he said.

He accused a section of Bungoma MPs, led by Sirisia MP John Waluke, of attempting to undermine his bid.

“These MPs were once my friends, but now they feel threatened and are trying to sabotage me. I will not relent,” he said.

Barasa urged voters to reject “recycled leaders”, arguing that the county needs fresh, visionary leadership.

“Those who have been in leadership before and failed should not be given another chance. Bungoma needs new ideas and energy,” he said.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

Didmus Barasa’s entry into the Bungoma governor race significantly reshapes the 2027 contest, injecting UDA directly into a region long dominated by Moses Wetang’ula’s Ford Kenya. The crowded field points to a fragmented vote, where party loyalty may be tested against individual influence and track records. Barasa’s alignment with William Ruto positions the race within the broader national political battle, while tensions among local leaders signal possible realignments. Ultimately, the contest could become a referendum on Western Kenya’s shifting political allegiance and the durability of traditional party strongholds.