As Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka serves his final term, many have lined- up to succeed the Ford Kenya governor in 2027.

Those who declared to run for the county gubernatorial position include: Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, Enock Opara, Dennis Nyongesa, businessman Zacharia Barasa among others.

The latest to make an announcement is Lusaka’s deputy Jenipher Mbatiany, who said that she is determined, ready and focused to take over from her boss.

Speaking to the press in Bungoma on Friday, February 6, Mbatiany confirmed that the online information shared a day earlier about her intention to vie for the county’s top seat is true putting to rest speculation that had been circulating on social media.

Mbatiany added that her bid is anchored on deepening service delivery, strengthening devolution and ensuring prudent use of public resources.

She maintained that her experience as deputy governor had given her a firsthand understanding of the county’s challenges and opportunities, positioning her well to steer Bungoma’s development agenda if elected.

“The information that you saw online reporting that I will run for the gubernatorial seat is true and I will go for it,” she said, affirming her intention to seek the Bungoma governorship.

After declaring her bid, Mbatiany said that she will move around the county seeking support from her supporters.

“I have a good plan for the people of Bungoma and if elected I will deliver on my promises,” she said.

However, she dismissed and demystified long held myths that women in the Western region cannot rise to leadership in elective positions, saying such narratives were outdated and misleading.

She noted that the region has many capable women who have consistently demonstrated leadership at community, professional and political levels.

“The idea that a woman cannot lead in Western Kenya is a myth whose time has long passed. Women here have proven, time and again, that they can lead effectively, deliver results and unite communities. Leadership is about vision, integrity and service not gender,” she said.

Mbatiany added that her bid should be seen as a reflection of changing attitudes and growing confidence in women’s leadership, urging voters to judge candidates based on competence and commitment to development rather than stereotypes.

Mbatiany stated that Kenya’s politics has changed arguing that according to statistics, the counties that voted in a woman have always been number one in development.

“That is a confirmation that women are good leaders and can lead wards, constituencies, counties and even the presidency,” she said, adding that she is ready to battle with men in the political space.

However, she did not disclose the party she will use.