Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has announced plans to reach out to Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya in a bid to rally him behind President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election campaign.

In a statement posted on his Facebook account on Sunday, January 11, 2026, after speaking in Trans Nzoia County during a church service, Lusaka, who led a delegation of pro-Ruto Mulembe leaders, said they will initiate talks with politicians from the opposition, particularly focusing on bringing Governor Natembeya into the fold.

“We are going to engage our brothers on the other side of the political divide, including Governor Natembeya, so that we can come together and work as one in supporting President Ruto,” Lusaka said.

Western region stance

The Bungoma governor emphasised the importance of Western region leaders speaking with one voice to accelerate development and strengthen their bargaining power at the national level.

Lusaka argued that the Western region would benefit more by backing President Ruto’s re-election bid, noting that unity among Luhya leaders would enhance the region’s influence in national politics.

“The Bungoma governor argued that the Western region stands to gain more by backing President Ruto’s re-election, noting that unity among Luhya leaders would strengthen the region’s bargaining power at the national level,” the statement read.

Opposition lacks strength

His remarks were echoed by Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, who dismissed the current opposition’s ability to defeat Ruto in 2027.

Savula, who spoke during the service, urged leaders and residents from the region to rally behind the Head of State as preparations for the next general election begin to take shape.

The church service was attended by several leaders from across Western Kenya, including Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala, Sirisia MP John Waluke, Likuyani MP Innocent Mugabe, Webuye East MP Martin Wanyonyi, Hamisi MP Charles Gimose, and Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana.