As the 2027 general elections approach, Homa Bay County is already witnessing vibrant political undercurrents that could significantly influence the election outcome and the leadership landscape.
The dynamics unfolding within the county reveal a complex interplay of community interests, political aspirations, and power struggles that will shape the county’s future governance.
_The Rachuonyo Factor: A Key Player in Homa Bay Politics_
The Rachuonyo clan, encompassing the three constituencies of Kabondo-Kasipul, Karachuonyo, and Kasipul, commands a formidable voting bloc of over two hundred thousand voters.
When combined with the nearly one hundred thousand votes from Onyango Rabala in Ndhiwa, the community holds significant sway in a county with over five hundred thousand registered voters.
Consequently, it appears highly likely that a candidate endorsed by the Rachuonyo community could clinch the governorship seat, making unity within the clan crucial.
Recognizing this potential, there is a mounting call within Rachuonyo to consolidate their voice and present a unified front ahead of 2027.
This push for political cohesion is mobilizing aspirants at various levels—from wards to constituencies—with the shared mission of restoring the county’s leadership glory and advancing its development to new heights.
_Kasipul By-Election: A Crucial Test for ODM and Local Interests_
The impending by-election in Kasipul, triggered by the untimely death of the late MP Ong’ondo Were, has become a litmus test for both the ODM party and the Rachuonyo community’s influence. Community mobilization is underway to assert local authority and prevent what is perceived as external interference.
Notably, Governor Gladys Wanga is backing Boyd Were, the son of the late MP, to succeed his father—an endorsement that some claim goes against the electorate’s wishes.
For Governor Wanga, the stakes are high: a loss for Boyd could signify her political exit, while a win could position her for a re-election bid in 2027.
This by-election is therefore a critical battleground reflecting broader power contests within the county.
_Rachuonyo Aspirants Rally to Shape the Political Landscape_
Stakeholders within the Rachuonyo community and aspirants for various positions in Kasipul are actively strategizing to ensure their favored candidate emerges victorious.
Top on the list and the man to beat is Nairobi businessman Philip Aroko. Aroko who had put the late MP on toes keeping him at home since his re-election in 2022 till he died on 30th April is the one with victory at his doorstep.
However, Newton Ogada, Okindo Majiwa, and Robert Riaga alias Money Bior among others are on top gears to pull a rug under the feet of the favoured Boyd Were.
This effort coincides with local discontent aimed at countering Governor Wanga’s influence, which many associate with the late MP Ong’ondo Were, who was viewed as aligned closely with her administration.
The community’s simmering rebellion against perceived political dominance is intensifying, with the by-election serving as a precursor to the 2027 general elections. Deputy Governor Oyugi Magwanga, widely regarded as a formidable figure, is poised to challenge Governor Wanga. Many view the Governor’s political clout as derived largely from the support of party leader Raila Odinga and ODM’s dominance, painting a narrative of a potential power shift.
Magwanga’s political resilience was notably demonstrated in 2017, when he nearly unseated then-Governor Cyprian Awiti, only to be narrowly thwarted by the Supreme Court, which overturned previous rulings invalidating Awiti’s election.
_Karachuonyo Constituency: Political Fires Ignited_
Similar political ferment is evident in Karachuonyo constituency, where aspirants are actively building their campaigns and war chests in preparation for the elections. With MP Adipo Okuome serving his second term, speculation abounds regarding his potential retirement or defeat.
_Past practice in the constituency shows a pattern where MPs usually serve two terms_ .
Okuome’s decision will set the tone for the race, with top contenders emerging, including Samson Okumu, former Director of Supplies and Chain Management, Homa Bay County Assembly clerk Hannington Abeka, Kenya Electricity Transmission Company’s Communications Officer Jack Nduri, and Sam Ogutu.
Okumu’s extensive leadership experience spans five years at the Karachuonyo National Government- Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) office, where he developed helicopter eyeview on matters development as he directly executed implementation plans of various projects.
His hands-on policy made him a practical practitioner in the management of public resources.
His decade-long exemplary service at the county level has also sharpened him for bigger leadership roles going forward.
At the inception of devolution, Governor Awiti charged him with the transport department for five years which he manned successfully before he was elevated as a director of procurement, a key department for governance in a devolved unit.
His track record in the latter department positions him as a formidable candidate and with his grassroots network and attachment within the corridors of power.
It is only a matter of time before he becomes the ninth MP for Karachuonyo constituency.
*Tradition and Territorial Dynamics in Karachuonyo Politics*
The election is also influenced by a long-standing constituency tradition favoring alternation based on geographic lines—between East and West Karachuonyo.
Okuome hails from the East and serves a second term, meaning West Karachuonyo candidates, such as Okumu, are expected to rally for their turn.
This oscillation has historically shaped electoral contests and may prove decisive in the coming election.
Okumu’s reputation for strategic subtlety and political savvy adds a layer of complexity for aspirants from both East and West factions, who must contend with his ability to maneuver skillfully without drawing attention.
In conclusion, Homa Bay County’s political landscape is heating up, shaped by clan loyalties, power struggles, and strategic maneuvers that will likely determine leadership trajectories in 2027.
The Kasipul by-election serves as a critical precursor, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense and closely watched electoral season.
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