Westlands Member of Parliament Tim Wanyonyi’s bid for the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial seat has received a major boost ahead of the elections. The Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) leadership in Bungoma has endorsed the lawmaker, dealing a blow to Kimilili lawmaker, Didmus Barasa, who is also eyeing the seat when the incumbent, Ken Lusaka, completes his second and final term.
In a unified declaration, church leaders from all nine sub-counties, led by the Right Reverend George Mechumo, Bishop of the ACK Diocese of Bungoma, announced their support for Wanyonyi as the county’s preferred candidate.
“Tim has demonstrated the ability to transform society and uplift communities, qualities that our county urgently needs,” Bishop Mechumo said, reaffirming the church’s position in backing his candidacy.
Notably, the Bishop said that the decision reflected Wanyonyi’s record in public service and his commitment to uplifting communities. He emphasised that these qualities were essential for effective leadership in the county.
“The endorsement represents a collective decision by the Anglican Church across all nine sub-counties, signalling strong institutional backing for Wanyonyi,” the clergy added.
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Following the endorsement, several Bungoma politicians condemned Didmus Barasa over his recent remarks on people with disability.
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Martin Walusaka, a politician who was in Bungoma Town, expressed support for Wanyonyi and denounced Barasa’s statements.
“I want to seriously condemn whatever the leader said recently. Disabilities cause suffering, but you should not say that people with disabilities are not useful in running this country. Disabilities can make you fetch water, drive a car, work as a nurse, or even be a pilot,” Walusaka said.
Walusaka argued that Bungoma needs leaders who protect and support all residents, highlighting that Wanyonyi’s approach aligns with inclusive governance and development.
Tim Wanyonyi backed by current Leadership and Aspirants
Sween Khayanga, an Economic Advisor in Governor Lusaka’s office and a Women Representative aspirant for Bungoma County, also commented on the political shift.
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She emphasised that Bungoma’s leadership requires humility and the ability to listen to people.
“That leader is Tim Wanyonyi, who agreed to leave Nairobi to take care of Bungoma’s resources,” she said.
“The leadership of Bungoma went to Nairobi and told Hon. Tim to come and serve the county.”
Khayanga further reflected on past leadership decisions, noting that the county had previously supported bringing Governor Lusaka back from Nairobi, highlighting the importance of leaders who can respond to the county’s needs.
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