Bungoma governor race: Didmus embraces Tim Wanyonyi with plea to supporters
By Mabonga Makhanu, August 10, 2025Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa has urged his constituents not to be hostile towards his political opponent, Tim Wanyonyi, who is also eyeing the Bungoma gubernatorial seat.
Speaking in his constituency during a fundraiser attended by both himself and Tim Wanyonyi on Sunday, August 10, 2025, Barasa called on residents to welcome and embrace Wanyonyi whenever he visits Kimilili.
He noted that despite both of them vying for the same seat, there is no need for conflict, as the election should not be a source of violence or unnecessary propaganda.
Didmus added that he had been warmly received when he visited Wanyonyi’s area and that the people ultimately hold the power to decide who will lead them.
“Na mimi naambia watu wa Kimilili hara kama mimi pia nataka kuwa Governor wa Bungoma, pamaoja na huyu Rafik yangu Tim wanyonyi, tunataka kuwa Govenor wa bungoma, akikuja hapa mmpende mkaribishe vizuri, hata mimi nilienda kwao nikakaribishwa vijuri, na hii kura Hainan vita, wananchi hawa wako na ability kuliko mimi mwenyewe.” Didmus stated
He stated that the campaigns should be conducted peacefully and that all candidates should have the freedom to move across Bungoma County without intimidation. He welcomed Wanyonyi to campaign in any part of the county, noting that the seat does not belong to any individual.
“Sisi tunataka tufanye kampeni ya amani; mimi tayari nimeanza kuzunguka kila sehemu hapa Bungoma. Tim pia, nakukaribisha uzunguke kila sehemu, kwa sababu hii kaunti si mali ya mtu yeyote,” He stated
His advise to aspirants
Didmus maintained that all those seeking the gubernatorial seat are free to visit Kimilili and should be treated with respect and courtesy regardless of political differences.
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He stressed that the election is not a battle and should not be driven by hatred, propaganda, or violence. Instead, he called for competition based on policies and development plans, adding that Bungoma County needs unity among its residents to achieve meaningful progress.
“Na wale wote wanaogombea kiti cha gavana wanaruhusiwa kutembelea hapa Kimilili bila hofu au bughudha. Tunapaswa kuonyesha heshima na ukarimu kwa kila mgombea, bila kujali itikadi au misimamo ya kisiasa. Mwisho wa siku, wananchi wa Bungoma ndio watakaoamua ni nani ataongoza, na maamuzi hayo yaheshimiwe na wote.” He added