By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 6 July 2026 - The battle for the 2027 Vihiga governorship has begun to gather momentum, with Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba framing the next election as a choice between remaining close to government or returning to the political margins.
Speaking at Essaba Primary School during the issuance of NG-CDF funds, Milemba used the development event to make an unmistakable political pitch. He urged residents to support leaders working with the national government, arguing that access to State power had become the defining factor in attracting development projects.
The lawmaker formally declared his intention to contest the Vihiga governor's seat, challenging voters to judge him on his record over the past two years rather than campaign rhetoric.
"My record as Emuhaya MP speaks louder than my opponents," Milemba said.
"We have not had ministerial representation since 1953. The Maragoli have been lucky to produce ministers. We have been locked in opposition for too long."
His remarks reflect a growing trend in Kenyan politics, where leaders increasingly portray political proximity to the national administration as the quickest route to infrastructure, investment and public services.
Milemba argued that Emuhaya's decision to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration had already produced visible dividends.
He cited the upgrading of the Maseno-Kombewa Road, the Mbale-Magada-Goodwill Road in Luanda, subsidised fertiliser for farmers, affordable housing projects, industrial parks and modern markets as evidence that cooperation with the government delivers results.
"In 2027 let us be wise. Let us not be confused in opposition," he told residents.
"For the last two years we joined government and we have received a lot of development."
The MP made it clear that his gubernatorial ambition is anchored on maintaining close ties with the national government.
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"I want to be Vihiga Governor in government, not in opposition," he declared.
"I am very loyal to my electorate and I urge my people to register as voters in large numbers."
Milemba also introduced another sensitive political question by insisting that the governorship should remain in Emuhaya, signalling that regional balancing could become a major issue in the county's succession politics.
"The governor seat must remain in Emuhaya and we must remain vigilant on our voting pattern," he said.
His comments are likely to sharpen debate ahead of the 2027 elections, as aspirants seek to persuade voters that political influence in Nairobi is just as important as local leadership credentials.
Residents who attended the event welcomed the NG-CDF allocation to Essaba Primary School but indicated that while development remains a key consideration, they will ultimately judge candidates on both their performance and their vision for Vihiga's future.
With more than a year before the polls, Milemba's message has set the tone for what promises to be an intense gubernatorial contest—one in which the politics of development, access to State power and regional identity are expected to dominate the campaign trail.