Waluke reaffirms Tim Wanyonyi’s endorsement, backs Didmus Barasa for future bid
By Luke Oluoch, January 10, 2026Sirisia Member of Parliament John Koyi Waluke has shed light on his endorsement of Westland MP Tim Wanyonyi’s bid for the Bungoma gubernatorial race, explaining that he espouses the qualities the county needs for the role.
Speaking at his constituency on Saturday, January 10, 2026, Waluke downplayed the candidacy of his counterpart, Didmus Barasa, arguing that the Kimilili lawmaker should consider his chances after Wanyonyi’s tenure.
Best suited
“We are currently in need of a manager and a person capable of managing the affairs of the county and its funds. The person who better represents those needs is none other than Tim Wanyonyi,” he stated.
He added that Wafula has the time before him and could still pursue his ambitions for the county in the future.
“For Didmus, we will consider him and give him and probably offer him a chance in the future. He is still young and energetic. Meanwhile, we will have Tim Wanyonyi, who will be our governor for 2027,” he added.
His remarks come after Governor Ken Lusaka vowed to give his direction over the person best suited to lead the county following his second tenure as the county boss.
Speaking on Monday, December 22, 2025, Lusaka disclosed that he would make known his preferred successor when the time comes, adding that it was too early to comment on the race that has so far attracted up to five aspirants.
“It is for the citizens to say who they want to lead the county. As of now, people are still emerging, and the race is shaping up. By next year, June, I will be in a clear position to assess the candidates based on their strengths and give direction on who has the capacity to take the mantle of leading Bungoma to the next stage,” he said.
The pre-2027 contest to succeed the incumbent has so far attracted businessman Zechariah Barasa, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, Wycliffe Wangamati, and Westland MP Tim Wanyonyi as the early frontrunners.