Inside Politics

Omboko Milemba: I’m in Vihiga governor race to the end, ready for UDA showdown

Sunday 10th May, 2026 12:38 PM| By Enock Amukhale

Emuhaya Member of Parliament Omboko Milemba has dismissed claims that he has withdrawn from the Vihiga gubernatorial race, declaring that he remains firmly in the contest and is ready to battle rivals in the UDA nominations.

Speaking on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at his Emuhaya parliamentary offices, Milemba said he is more determined than ever to vie for the county’s top seat.

Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba during a past public function. PHOTO/@HonOmboko_MP/X

“Let it be known clearly: I have not stepped down. I am fully in the race, energised and more determined than ever,” Milemba said.

Opponents spreading propaganda

The legislator, who is also KUPPET National Chairman, accused his political opponents of spreading propaganda aimed at weakening his bid, insisting that his growing influence across Vihiga had unsettled rivals.

Milemba said his grassroots support and mobilisation network across the county had made him a formidable contender ahead of the anticipated UDA party primaries.

Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba addresses mourners during the burial of retired teacher Jackson Aswani held at Muhombe primary school in Emuhaya sub-county. PHOTO/Enock Amukhale

“Every time a new name joins the race, it is only Milemba they say will step down. Why? Because I am the real threat,” he said.

“I’m not seeking shortcuts. I am ready to face anyone squarely at the UDA nominations. Haitakuwa rahisi.”

Milemba described himself as “the indomitable lion back in the arena, calm, strategic, and fearless.” He warned opponents who thought the ground was “comfortable” that “the race has only begun.”

“This is no longer politics as usual,” he added.

Godfrey Osotsi’s gubernatorial bid

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi has also declared his intention to run for the Vihiga County governorship in the 2027 General Election.

Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi addresses a charged crowd during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Luanda, Vihiga County on Saturday, April 25, 2026. PHOTO/https://www.facebook.com/osotsi2027

Speaking in an interview with a local radio station on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, Osotsi highlighted his track record in oversight, noting he has engaged the county government in a record 18 meetings to ensure accountability.

“Unajua mimi sijaamka mimi siasa yangu napanga mbele. Sipangangi siasa ya miaka mitano, napanga siasa ya miaka 10 kwenda mbele. Mimi nilikuwa mbunge, nilikuwa National Assembly, nilikuwa nominated member of parliament. Na wakati huo nikakuwa na nafasi ya kusimama kiti ya gavana, ubunge na seneta, nikatoa uamuzi,” Osotsi stated.