Kisumu deputy governor Owili: Why I want to succeed Anyang’ Nyong’o in 2027
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili launches his bid for the Kisumu gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election during a ceremony at Ciala Resort in Kisumu on September 3, 2026.
What you need to know:
- Owili has served under Prof Nyong’o during his two terms.
- He outlined his 10-point agenda for the people of Kisumu, outlining projects that were initiated during his tenure, pledging to complete those pending.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr Mathew Owili on Thursday launched his gubernatorial bid with a promise to build on the foundation he set with his boss, Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, by not only safeguarding Kisumu’s future but also taking it to greater heights.
Dr Owili, who has served under Prof Nyong’o during his two terms, stressed that his administration will be guided by a simple commitment: a government that listens, delivers and is accountable to the people.
He outlined his 10-point agenda for the people of Kisumu, outlining projects that were initiated during his tenure by both the county and national governments, stressing that he will complete the pending ones while at the same time partnering with the government to deliver capital projects.
According to Dr Owili, these strategic investments are more than infrastructure projects, but the foundation of a prosperous, competitive and globally connected Kisumu, driving economic growth, creating jobs, attracting investment and improving the lives of the people of Kisumu.
“For nine years, I have walked this journey with Governor Nyong’o. I have participated in building these foundations, witnessed the challenges, celebrated the successes, and learned the lessons necessary to guide Kisumu through a successful transition beyond 2027. My commitment is simple: to build on the foundations laid by Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o and to protect the development vision inspired by our departed icon and national statesman, Raila Odinga,” said Dr Owili, who spoke at the Ciala Resort Kisumu on Thursday.
He believes leadership is measured not by promises made but by the lives it transforms, promising to focus firmly on the priorities that matter most to every family across Kisumu.
“This is not about changing course. It is about completing the journey and taking Kisumu to the next level with leadership anchored on integrity, accountability, service and commitment,” said Dr Owili.
He was flanked by county staff, including County Executive Committee Members, friends and the business community.
He promised to focus on investing in quality healthcare, better roads and infrastructure, clean and reliable water, jobs and economic opportunities for our youth, quality education, and stronger support for farmers, fisherfolk, women and small businesses.
Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili launches his bid for the Kisumu gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election during a ceremony at Ciala Resort in Kisumu on September 3, 2026.
“We will champion transparent leadership, prudent use of public resources, and ensure that development reaches every ward, village and community without discrimination,” said Dr Owili.
During the transition from one administration to the other, the public is usually concerned about the goodwill of the new occupant of the office and the continuation of some programmes left pending by the incumbent.
The DG committed to giving priority to pending projects, completing them before embarking on new projects, and also dealing candidly with the issue of pending bills.
He stated that, when elected, he will fast-track the completion of the 30-kilometre Lakeside Promenade to transform the city’s waterfront into a world-class destination for tourism, recreation, business and investment.
Dr Owili also promised to establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to attract manufacturing, industrial investment and innovation, and create thousands of jobs for the youth.
Another key project he wants to fast-track is the completion of the urban renewal programmes in Kisumu. He said he would spearhead the completion of flagship urban renewal initiatives, notably the Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP I), KISIP II and other donor-funded development programmes aimed at modernising city infrastructure, improving public amenities and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Dr Owili joins a long list of aspirants seeking to take over from Prof Nyong’o, who is serving his final term.
Other candidates include Kisumu Woman Representative Ms Ruth Odinga, MPs Dr Joshua Oron (Kisumu Central), Rozah Buyu (Kisumu West), Aduma Owuor (Nyakach), Senator Tom Ojienda, former Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura and auditor Rodgers Okeya.
Dr Owili also called for peaceful campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections, asking leaders to sell their policies and not engage in violence.
Follow ourWhatsApp channel for breaking news updates and more stories like this.
