As Kisumu’s political engine begins to hum ahead of 2027, one name rings with striking consistency across the ridges of Nyahera, the bustling corridors of Kondele and the quiet lakeside homes of Dunga — Dr. Mathew Owili.
The calm, articulate and practical Deputy Governor has, for the past seven years, worked shoulder-to-shoulder with Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o, steering the ship of devolution with tested loyalty, unmatched diligence and a results-driven vision that has redefined the city’s image.
When Dr. Owili took office alongside Prof. Nyong’o, few foresaw the steady partnership that would follow, one defined by teamwork, not turmoil. From infrastructure upgrades to healthcare expansion, Owili has been at the very nerve centre of execution.
Through deliberate collaboration, the duo attracted national and international development partners, among them the World Bank, UN-Habitat and the Lake Region Economic Bloc, placing Kisumu on the map of global transformation.
Observers note that while Nyong’o’s academic precision shaped the policy direction, Owili’s practical administrative experience ensured implementation was not lost in rhetoric. His firm grip on grassroots realities made him the bridge between technical bureaucracy and everyday citizens.
“We’ve built Kisumu on the foundation of partnership, discipline and service,” Dr. Owili often says. “We now need to consolidate these gains with leadership that is inclusive, stable and forward-looking.”
The Kisumu gubernatorial race is fast attracting familiar names — a handful of legislators, former technocrats and a few businessmen.
Who is the most enthusiasm, while possessing the administrative stamina or development-oriented track record to steer the county beyond where it is?
Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron boasts a strong constituency presence, will he demonstrate transformative county-wide leadership or a coherent development blueprint?
Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda commands respect in legal and intellectual circles.
Ken Obura Mirenga, a one-term MP and former CAS, brings experience from the national stage.
Ruth Odinga, though seasoned politically, has struggled to rally a unified coalition within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) fold in previous countywide responsibilities.
According to political obsever Morris Ogola, “Owili is the only candidate whose experience merges policy, loyalty and performance. The rest are still in campaign mode while Owili is in governance mode.”
Diplomacy, networks and delivery
Dr. Owili’s strength lies in his strategic temperament. Behind his calm demeanour is a deeply networked figure who has quietly cultivated relations across the political divide — from county assemblies to Parliament, from cabinet offices to foreign missions.
His tenure has seen Kisumu secure major investments in infrastructure, health and education, including the Kisumu Urban Project, the modernization of the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital and renewed investments in TVET institutions that continue to equip thousands of youths with employable skills.
Owili’s practical style has also earned him the label “the people’s administrator,” for his open-door engagement with ordinary residents, community leaders and professionals.
Within the ODM party, where two emerging factions are jostling for control, Dr. Owili has consistently called for calm, reason and unity.
“Our strength as ODM has always been in our discipline and solidarity,” he recently told opinion leaders in Seme. “If we lose sobriety, we lose our moral power at the negotiating table. Unity is not an option but our survival tool.”
In a region often swayed by emotion-driven politics, Owili’s reasoned tone has positioned him as a statesman in waiting — one who speaks less but delivers more.
A spot check across Kisumu paints an emerging picture of confidence in Dr. Owili’s leadership.
“He’s not loud, but he works. We see the projects, the schools and the roads. That’s what matters,” says Mary Achieng, a trader at Kibuye Market.
“Owili represents calm and order. Kisumu needs continuity, not experiments,” adds George Odhiambo, a boda boda rider in Nyalenda.
“I’ve seen him engage with professionals and youth alike. He listens and he delivers,” remarks Janet Ogolla, a youth in Manyatta.
While opinions vary on who should take over from Prof. Nyong’o, a subtle consensus is forming — that Kisumu’s next governor should be both visionary and grounded. And many believe Dr. Mathew Owili fits that description best.
Dr. Owili’s political philosophy is built on pragmatism: issue-based campaigns, inclusive governance and sustainable development. His emphasis on results over rhetoric resonates with a generation of voters tired of empty promises, politics of tokenism hid in spectre but lacks policy-based approach on real economic empowerment; and political drama.
As the county edges closer to transition, Kisumu appears ready not for a political gamble but for a steady, proven hand — one that blends intellect, humility and performance.
