Osotsi intensifies his 2027 Vihiga gubernatorial bid, popularises Linda Mwananchi in Kigama
By Enock Amukhale, June 21, 2026Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi on Sunday intensified his campaign for the Vihiga gubernatorial seat while rallying support for the Linda Mwananchi Movement during a stopover at the Kigama trading centre in Vihiga County.
Addressing hundreds of residents who gathered to hear him speak on Sunday, June 2026, Osotsi said he was ready to offer transformative leadership focused on efficient service delivery, accountability, and inclusive development across the county.
The senator used the occasion to popularise the Linda Mwananchi Movement, describing it as a people-centred platform committed to empowering communities, improving public services, and ensuring equitable development for all citizens.
“Together, we are building a stronger and more prosperous Vihiga for all,” Osotsi said, adding that Linda Mwananchi is anchored on listening to wananchi and responding to their real needs.
Defence on the Linda Mwananchi agenda
The senator expressed hope that the Linda Mwananchi Movement will produce a presidential candidate capable of unseating President William Ruto in the 2027 general election.
He said the movement’s strength lies in grassroots mobilisation and addressing issues that affect ordinary citizens.
Osotsi continues to command significant political grip in Vihiga County and the wider Western region.
His recent fallout with ODM, where he was removed as deputy party leader, has further strengthened his independent profile among supporters.
Political observers note that Osotsi’s withdrawal from active ODM support has coincided with the fading of the party’s popularity in Vihiga.
All 25 ward offices in the county have since closed, while Osotsi’s supporters say they are waiting patiently for guidance on their next political home, with many leaning toward Linda Mwananchi.
As campaigns for 2027 gather pace, Osotsi’s Kigama stopover signals his dual strategy: consolidating support for the Vihiga governor’s race while positioning Linda Mwananchi as a national alternative.
Osotsi declares his bid
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.