Willis Raburu has been drawn into early political conversations in Kisumu after Siaya Governor James Orengo suggested he could be eyeing the county’s Senate seat in 2027.

In a post on X on April 23, 2026, Orengo said he had met the media personality and praised his skills, while linking him to the ‘Linda Mwananchi Movement’, a faction within ODM.

“Today, I had an engaging tete-a-tete with @WillisRaburu. He’s officially bringing his signature youthful energy, corporate MC expertise, and creative media edge to the Linda Mwananchi Movement,” Orengo wrote.

He then went on to suggest that Raburu is already in the race for the Kisumu Senate.

“Willis is running for the Kisumu Senatorial seat, and we are thrilled he’s chosen to board our bus, a movement fueled by the aspirations of the youth and a drive for a better Kenya,” he added.

Raburu has not publicly confirmed that he is vying for the seat.

Kisumu 2027 race heats up

The remarks have, however, added fresh attention to Kisumu’s 2027 political landscape, where several leaders are already positioning themselves for key seats.

The current Kisumu Senator, Tom Ojienda, has declared interest in the county’s governor seat on an ODM ticket. His move has opened up a new wave of potential aspirants eyeing the Senate seat, as political activity in Kisumu begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political activity in the region has been picking up as various factions within ODM step up mobilisation efforts. The Linda Mwananchi group, led by leaders such as Orengo, has been holding rallies and consultations across different parts of the country.

The movement has also become part of wider internal debates within ODM over direction and alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.

While Orengo’s post appears to place Raburu in the Senate race, the media personality has yet to make any formal declaration.