Race to succeed Governor Awiti gains momentum

Homa Bay county 2022 gubernatorial race has attracted a high number of aspirants in Nyanza region.

Several political bigwigs are positioning themselves to succeed the incumbent Governor Cyprian Awiti who is serving his second and last term.

Already, nine politicians, including ODM party national chairman John Mbadi have expressed interest.

On several occasions, Mbadi who has served for three terms as Gwasi MP, has claimed to be the best placed to succeed Awiti given his political experience.

He has, however, refuted claims he would be favoured by the party due to his position in it.

“Our party believes in democracy and I will present myself just like other candidates for a contest,” he said.

Woman Rep Gladys Wanga, the party’s county chairperson, is also keen to make a stab at the seat.

“As a woman who has traversed this county, I am best placed to turn it around.

I am sure Homa Bay needs a woman leader who will develop it more than a man”.

Apart from the duo, others who have shown interest in the seat are former Kasipul Kabondo MP Oyugi Magwanga, who also gave Awiti a run for his money in the 2017 election and businessman Sam Wakiaga.

Magwanga, who vied as an independent candidate after ditching the Orange party following the botched primaries, has since rejoined the party.

He said: “You saw what happened in the last election, I believe the time to take over the leadership is now so that the people of Homa Bay can see what I have to offer”.

Kuppet Secretary-General Akello Misori, former Kenya polytechnic university executive secretary Cosmas Kanyadudi and flamboyant businessman Jared Otieno Kiasa are also interested in the seat. 

The current County Secretary Isaiah Ogwe and Finance  minister Nicholas Koriko are also interested in succeeding their boss.

Even though he has not declared officially, former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero is also seen to be making moves to win the hearts of the electorate.

Kidero who hails from Asumbi in the same county, has been participating in several fundraisers and development projects and generously dishing out cash to assist the youth and women groups. 

The former Nairobi governor’s handlers believe he has the best chance of succeeding Awiti.