By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 28 July 2026 - Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili, has dismissed speculation that he has slowed down his bid for the county's top seat, declaring that he remains firmly in the race to succeed Governor Prof. Anyang' Nyong'o in the 2027 General Election.
Speaking to his key political allies, including former PS Jerome Ochieng, and County minister for Roads and Transport, Dr Owili said his recent absence from the local political scene had been misinterpreted after he travelled to the United States for a series of diaspora engagement meetings.
According to the Deputy Governor, some political observers mistook the temporary lull in his campaign activities for a sign that he had abandoned his ambitions.
"I want to make it abundantly clear that I am firmly in the race for Governor. My absence was occasioned by official and diaspora engagements in the United States. It should never be mistaken for a lack of commitment or cold feet. I remain focused on my mission,"he said.
Dr Owili said his campaign would now gather fresh momentum as he intensifies consultations across the county.
"This journey is about serving the people of Kisumu. We have a responsibility to consolidate the gains made over the years while opening a new chapter of economic transformation, better service delivery and inclusive development," he said.
The Deputy Governor said his bid is anchored on what he described as a development philosophy built around continuity, accountability and expanding opportunities for young people, women and entrepreneurs.
"Leadership is not about making promises alone. It is about delivering measurable results, strengthening institutions and ensuring every part of Kisumu shares in development. That is the vision I am presenting to the people,"he said.
He pledged to prioritise job creation, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, industrial growth and investment promotion should he be elected governor.
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Dr Owili also called for a peaceful and issue-based campaign as the political temperature begins to rise.
"The people of Kisumu deserve mature politics. Let us compete with ideas, policies and development records. Leadership should unite our people, not divide them,"he said.
His declaration comes as the race for the county's top seat continues to attract an influential field of aspirants. Among those linked to the contest are Kisumu Central MP Dr Joshua Oron, Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor former Chief Administrative Secretary Ken Obura and former Governor Jack Ranguma.
While acknowledging that the contest would be highly competitive, Dr Owili said he welcomed the growing interest in the governorship, arguing that democracy thrives when voters are presented with a broad choice of candidates.
"I respect everyone who has offered themselves for leadership. Ultimately, the people of Kisumu will decide. My responsibility is to present my vision, my record and my commitment to the electorate with humility and confidence," he said.
Political analysts Ken Onyango expect the Kisumu gubernatorial race to rank among the most closely watched county contests in the country.
Beyond the contest of personalities, candidates are expected to be judged on their plans to tackle youth unemployment, improve healthcare, expand infrastructure, strengthen agriculture and fisheries, attract investment and accelerate economic growth.
For Dr Owili, the message to supporters was unequivocal: his gubernatorial ambitions remain alive, and his campaign is entering a new phase as he seeks to convince voters that he is the right leader to steer Kisumu into its next chapter.