By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 16 December 2025 - Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathew Owili has declared his intention to run for governor, presenting himself as the candidate best placed to succeed Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o and continue the county’s development trajectory.
In his announcement, Owili framed his bid around experience, delivery, and the preservation of Nyong’o’s legacy, arguing that his tenure as deputy governor equips him with a unique understanding of the county’s governance and development needs.
“I am the best candidate to lead Kisumu because I know how this county works, and I have been part of every decision and project that has brought us this far,” he said, emphasising continuity and the need to maintain the momentum of the current administration.
Dr Owili points to his role in implementing major development initiatives as evidence of his readiness to assume leadership.
He cites efforts to revitalise Kisumu’s port, enhance road networks, and boost trade and investment as tangible achievements under his watch.
Owili also highlights programmes that target youth empowerment and small business growth, such as digital and vocational training hubs, which he describes as “practical interventions that equip our young people with skills and opportunities to improve their lives.”
For Owili, these projects are more than policy points—they are proof that leadership grounded in delivery can transform the county.
Central to his argument is the promise of continuing Nyong’o’s legacy.
Owili consistently portrays himself as a custodian of the current administration’s achievements, seeking to expand on initiatives that have shaped Kisumu’s growth over the past decade.
“Governor Nyong’o has laid a strong foundation for Kisumu, and I want to build on that foundation. Our people deserve a leader who will continue his vision of inclusive development, economic empowerment, and good governance,” Owili said.
In linking his ambitions to Nyong’o’s legacy, he positions himself as both a successor and a steward of the policies and projects that have defined the county’s progress.
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Owili also stresses his local roots and intimate knowledge of Kisumu, presenting himself as someone who understands the aspirations and challenges of its residents.
“I have lived here my entire life, and I have worked closely with communities across the county. I know what works and what does not, and I am ready to lead with that knowledge,” he said, appealing to voters who value both competence and personal investment in local development.
This connection to the community, combined with his record, is central to his claim that he is the most qualified candidate.
The Kisumu gubernatorial race is expected to be competitive, with several other high-profile politicians signaling interest, including Kisumu County Woman Representative Ruth Odinga, Senator Tom Ojienda, Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron, and Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor. There is also an Auditor Rodgers Omond Okeya on the list while speculation surrounds Kisumu West MP Rozaah Buyu and former Chief Administrative Secretary and Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura.
Obura is going it alone and like Oron, Ojienda, and Aduma have hit the ground running.
Despite the growing field of aspirants, Owili believes his direct involvement in governance, hands-on experience, and deep familiarity with ongoing projects give him a clear advantage.
Owili’s campaign emphasises both continuity and innovation. While pledging to maintain Nyong’o’s development agenda, he also promises to introduce new initiatives aimed at expanding economic opportunities, enhancing infrastructure, and supporting youth and women in business.
“We have done a lot, but there is more to do. My plan is to accelerate development, empower our communities, and ensure that every Kisumu resident benefits from progress,” he said.
Owili justifies his candidacy as a combination of experience, delivery, and vision.
Highlighting his achievements, reinforcing his commitment to Nyong’o’s legacy, and outlining plans for further development, he positions himself as the candidate best equipped to lead Kisumu into the next phase of growth.
“Kisumu deserves a governor who can deliver results, understand its people, and continue the legacy of good governance and development. That is what I offer,” Owili concludes, capturing the central message of his campaign.
