Migori-based businessman and aspiring politician Tom Okong’o has thrown his weight behind National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, calling on the Luo community to rally behind him as the ideal choice to deputies President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
Okong’o, who hails from Nyatike Sub-County, said Mbadi stands out as the most senior Luo politician currently close to power and well-placed to represent the community at the national level.
“Mbadi has experience, maturity, and access to power. Among all our leaders today, he is the one best positioned to serve as Deputy President,” Okong’o told KTMN News during an interview in Migori town.
The businessman, who has declared interest in the MCA seat in 2027, said leadership should not be forced or self-proclaimed but earned through public trust and a proven track record of service.
“You cannot force yourself on people to be a kingpin. Leadership must come naturally. The people should see your worth and decide,” he said.
National Treasury CS John Mbadi .[POOL]Gladys Wanga
Okong’o also dismissed growing talks of fielding Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga for the deputy position, terming the idea “unrealistic” and “politically premature”.
“With all due respect, Gladys Wanga is not fit and nowhere near the possibility of deputising Ruto. Leadership at that level requires seniority and proximity to power—and Mbadi clearly has both,” he remarked.
The outspoken businessman noted that Raila Odinga’s recent move to form a broad-based government after his agreement with President Ruto had already given direction to the Luo community.
He added that the community should now focus on consolidating its position within government rather than clinging to ethnic-based politics.
“Baba showed us the way. We already have direction. Let us now support those he trusted—leaders like Oburu Odinga, Anyang’ Nyong’o, James Orengo, Ochilo Ayacko, and above all, John Mbadi,” he said.
Okong’o emphasized that the Luo community must embrace national inclusivity while safeguarding its political relevance in Ruto’s administration.
“We should stop forcing new faces into leadership for the sake of ambition. Let us stand with those who have earned it. For me, John Mbadi is that person,” he concluded.
Okong’o also made it clear that he does not recognize the current interim ODM party leader Dr Oburu Odinga as his Kingpin, vowing never to use his image on any of his campaign posters.
“I will never use Oburu Odinga’s photo on my posters. For me, I only recognize Raila Odinga as the legitimate party figurehead until another kingpin naturally emerges,” he declared.
