With the race for the Kisumu county’s top seat begins to take shape ahead of the 2027 polls, Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili has formally positioned himself as the candidate best placed to succeed Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o.

Owili, who has served as deputy governor since 2017, shows that his experience in county government has informed his vision for the county’s next phase of development, be it a focus on healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, education and job creation.

On his latest remarks when unveiling his ambition to run for the top seat, the deputy governor said his nearly ten years in county leadership have equipped him with the knowledge and experience necessary to guide Kisumu into its next phase of growth.

“I know where Kisumu has come from, I know where it is today, and I know where it should be in the next ten years,” Owili said.

What Owili’s entry means

His entry into the conversation over Nyong’o’s successor comes as political activity begins to gather pace in Kisumu, where several leaders are already showing interest to seek the county’s top seat.

In positioning himself while delivering alongside his boss as a contender for Kisumu’s top seat, Owili has increasingly focused on key sectors that are likely to influence voters’ assessment of his leadership credentials as Governor Nyong’o’s term nears its end.

Healthcare has emerged as one of the areas he has consistently emphasised the need for improved services at sub-county hospitals, stronger maternal healthcare programmes and greater use of technology in managing patient records.

He has also advocated for interventions aimed at easing the burden on families affected by chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and kidney disease.

Addressing youth unemployment has equally been a central theme of his engagements. He has championed support for innovation, entrepreneurship and investment initiatives targeting young people, while calling for greater attention to vocational and technical training as a pathway to employment and economic empowerment.

Political analysts say Owili’s greatest advantage is his experience at the heart of county government.

During his tenure as Deputy Governor, he has overseen key programmes in healthcare, governance, social development and strategic planning.

He has also represented the county in numerous regional and international engagements.Supporters argue that unlike many aspirants who would require time to understand county operations, Owili would assume office with a deep understanding of county structures, budgets and development priorities.

Owili’s trust from Nyong’o

These priorities are increasingly shaping Owili’s profile as he seeks to convince Kisumu voters that he possesses the leadership experience and policy focus needed to steer the county after Nyong’o’s tenure.

Having served as Deputy Governor for two consecutive terms, Owili has achieved a feat that has eluded many deputy governors across the country, where strained relations with governors often result in deputies serving only one term.

However, while his experience may strengthen his credentials, the ultimate decision rests with voters, who will have a range of options to consider as other influential contenders continue to emerge in the race for Kisumu’s governorship ahead of the 2027 General Election.