Kisumu’s political heat is on. Deputy Governor Dr. Mathews Owili is setting the pace with bold words that have rattled rivals, he has declared himself the front-runner in the 2027 gubernatorial race.
“Kisumu is having a transitional leadership in the gubernatorial position. I hear many people are eyeing the seat in 2027,” he said, “Each political position has a clear political path. An MP has to be a member of committee or a chair of a committe, from there one can become either minority or majority leader. If you don’t have such records, give us a break!” Owili fired, sending shockwaves across the county’s political circles.
Behind the calm, academic demeanour lies a sharp strategist. Having served under Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o since 2017, Owili has quietly built a reputation as a dependable administrator. Now, with the governor entering his final term, Owili is emerging as the natural heir to Kisumu’s top seat.
The Deputy Governor’s remarks were more than casual talk. They were a warning. The road to leadership is not for political tourists. In a county where nearly half a dozen aspirants have declared interest, Owili is shifting the narrative from slogans to proven performance.
2027 Kisumu Gubernatorial Race
Among those eyeing the seat are Kisumu Central MP Dr. Joshua Oron, Nyakach MP Joshua Aduma Owuor, Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda, Woman Representative Ruth Odinga and former Governor Jack Ranguma.
Dr. Oron, though vibrant and youthful, is a first-term legislator with limited parliamentary experience. Aduma Owuor, a veteran of Nyakach politics, boasts committee experience but faces a stiff rivalry with Owili in their shared backyard.
Prof. Ojienda carries the weight of academia and political stature but is seen more as a national figure than a grassroots mobilizer. Ruth Odinga adds a gender and family dimension, while Jack Ranguma seeks a comeback that many view as nostalgic but unlikely.
Owili’s advantage lies in administrative experience, deep grassroots networks and strategic proximity to the Odinga political dynasty. He has been the loyal lieutenant, the quiet operator behind county programs and the man ready to step into the spotlight.
He also reaffirmed his loyalty to the Orange Democratic Movement, insisting the party fully supports Dr. Oburu Oginga as ODM leader. Owili intimated that the party will formally confirm Oburu’s position during the national delegates’ conference.
“The strength of ODM is what will give it both meaning and weight in the broad-based arrangement. Likewise, the strength of both ODM and UDA will make the government stronger and more deserving to steer the country forward,” he said.
By linking county ambitions with national party strategy, Owili positions himself as a bridge. He can secure Kisumu while reinforcing the party’s role in the broader coalition. His message is clear: leadership is earned, alliances matter and performance defines legitimacy.
Observers see Kisumu entering a delicate moment, a shift from intellectual leadership to a more pragmatic, operations-driven era. Owili embodies that change. He is calm but decisive, rooted in the system, unafraid to challenge its comfort zones.
For now, one thing is certain. The battle for Kisumu has begun in earnest. The others are still talking. He is already running the race.
