As political momentum quietly builds ahead of the 2027 General Election, the senatorial race in Migori County is steadily crystallizing into a contest defined by competence, constitutional literacy, and oversight capacity.
At the heart of this evolving conversation is city lawyer Gad Awuonda, whose professional background in constitutional drafting and governance is increasingly being cited by residents as a major strength in his quest to succeed Eddy Okech.
What distinguishes Awuonda in the emerging race is not merely political ambition, but his documented participation in one of Kenya’s most defining national processes — the making of the 2010 Constitution.
A Constitutional Insider
Mr Awuonda served as a Legislative Drafter with the Committee of Experts on Constitutional Review during the historic review of the Constitution of Kenya between 2009 and 2010.
History has it that the lawyer participated in the harmonization of draft constitutional texts, contributed to the publication of the proposed Constitution, and was involved in civic education efforts geared toward the realization of a new constitutional order for Kenya.
His credentials, confirms his role during the completion of the review process that birthed Kenya’s transformative 2010 Constitution.
For many voters in Migori, this is not a minor credential.
“Very few leaders can say they were part of drafting the Constitution that created devolution,” said Collins Onyango, a civil society activist in Migori town. “If you helped write the rules, you understand how they should be implemented. That is the kind of senator we need.”
Oversight Rooted in Constitutional Understanding
The Senate’s constitutional mandate revolves around protecting devolution, allocating revenue to counties, and overseeing county governments.
With Migori residents increasingly vocal about accountability and prudent use of public funds, Awuonda’s constitutional drafting experience is being framed as directly relevant.
At a recent consultative meeting in Rongo, Awuonda emphasized this connection:
“Devolution was not an accident. It was carefully designed in the Constitution. Oversight is not about confrontation; it is about safeguarding the spirit and letter of that Constitution.”
Mercy Atieno, a university student from Awendo, said Mr Awuonda’s background gives him credibility among young voters:
“When he speaks about Articles of the Constitution, about revenue sharing and public participation, you can tell he understands it deeply. That confidence matters.”
A Career Anchored in Law and Governance
Beyond his role in the constitutional review process,Mr Awuonda is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and an alumnus of the University of Nairobi.
His professional journey includes service as a Senior State Counsel, a Senior Human Rights Officer at the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, and the pioneer County Attorney for Nairobi City County during the early implementation of devolution.
Political observer Kevin Odera notes:
“The Senate debates complex issues — revenue allocation formulas, audit queries, constitutional amendments. Awuonda’s background in legislative drafting gives him a technical edge. He understands governance structures from inside.”
Ground Sentiments Reflect Demand for Accountability
While Eddy Okech has maintained visibility in national legislative affairs, a growing section of Migori residents say the next phase of leadership must prioritize sharper oversight of the county executive.
Charles Ogola, a teacher in Suna East, remarked:
“Oversight requires courage and knowledge. You must read audit reports, question expenditures, and defend public interest without fear. A constitutional drafter understands systems better.”
In Kuria West, farmer Benson Marwa added:
“If funds allocated to Migori are properly monitored, we will see better hospitals and roads. Oversight is development.”
A Campaign Framed Around Institutional Strength
Mr Awuonda’s senatorial bid is increasingly being framed not as a personality contest, but as a choice about institutional competence.
His supporters argue that Migori stands at a crossroads where strengthening accountability mechanisms could unlock more effective service delivery.
In his engagements, Awuonda consistently underscores that devolution’s promise can only be realized through vigilant legislative oversight.
“The Senate must be deliberate, informed, and fearless in protecting county resources,” he recently told professionals during a policy dialogue in Migori.
A Race Taking Shape
As political conversations intensify across Migori County, the senatorial race is gradually shifting from rhetoric to records.
For many voters, Awuonda’s documented involvement in drafting Kenya’s Constitution and his subsequent governance experience represent a compelling combination.
Whether that translates into electoral victory remains to be seen. But what is increasingly clear is that Gad Otieno Awuonda has anchored his senatorial quest on constitutional fidelity, oversight competence, and institutional accountability — themes that resonate strongly with an electorate eager to see devolution work more effectively.
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