Willis Raburu, a household name in Kenyan media for over a decade, has officially entered the political arena. His recent announcement to contest the Kisumu Senatorial seat marks a significant shift from his career in broadcasting.
Raburu describes this move as an evolution of his previous work rather than a departure from it.
“For years, I’ve told the stories of our people, highlighted the gaps, and amplified the voices that often go unheard. Now, I’m stepping forward to take responsibility for solutions,” he said.
Many have questioned why Raburu is joining politics after completing a Master’s degree in Communication for Development. For him, the degree is a tool for governance.
He specifically undertook these studies to help him think about policies that will rejuvenate both Kisumu and Kenya.
“I undertook a masters in communication for development, because we need to think about policy that will rejuvenate Kisumu and Kenya.”
He believes his time in the media was spent listening to the voices of the people. He now wants to ensure that storytelling must translate into service delivery.
A personal mission for Kisumu
The choice to run in Kisumu is rooted in his history. Raburu grew up in the area and considers it his home. He feels a deep sense of debt to the region, stating that he owes it his life and is now returning to give back.
He argues that Kisumu deserves a new style of leadership. This vision includes leaders who are accountable, visible, and deeply connected to the daily lives of the citizens. He wants to bridge the gap between narrative and action.
“Kisumu is home. I have grown there and I owe it my life now I am coming back to give back. Kisumu deserves leadership that understands both the power of narrative and the urgency of action,” he added.
The Linda Mwananchi alliance
Raburu has aligned himself with the Linda Mwananchi faction of the ODM party. This group is led by a powerful coalition of politicians, including Siaya Governor James Orengo, Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
“The leaders, Orengo, Babu, Sifuna, Osotsi have taught me that we must move from just being observers to participants,” Raburu explains.
He views the Linda Mwananchimovement as a mirror for the nation. He believes it reflects what Kenyans are willing to tolerate and what they are determined to change. For Raburu, this faction represents a team that is "strong and ready" to transform the country.
He is clear that he is not entering politics merely to be a figurehead. He wants to ignite thought and challenge the "comfort" of current systems. He believes that active participation is the fundamental foundation of democracy.
His goal is to move from being a reporter of events to a participant in them.
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