Kakamega Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda has officially declared her intention to vie for the Kakamega governor’s seat in the 2027 General Election, setting the stage for an early political contest over the county’s top leadership position.
Speaking during a morning interview with a local radio station on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Muhanda dismissed reports suggesting she had abandoned her gubernatorial ambitions, insisting that she remains firmly in the race.
According to the legislator, her decision to seek the county’s top seat is informed by feedback from residents who have encouraged her to contest.
“Mimi naskiza ground na ground ya Kakamega inasema wako kuparia mmama ugavana na wako tayari kupatia Mama Elsi ugavana. Ndio maana unaona kuna wale manabii wa uongo; mara wanasema mama amekubali kustep down, wengine wanasema Mama amesema hataendelea,” Muhanda said.
The lawmaker argued that much of the speculation surrounding her political future is being driven by individuals seeking to create confusion among voters.
Muhanda, who was elected on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket in 2022, indicated that while political parties remain important vehicles for leadership, they will not determine whether she remains in the race.
She revealed that she is prepared to contest as an independent candidate if she is denied a party ticket during the nomination process.
“Wengine wananiambia mama huko mbele, ‘Mama, usiangalie chama kwa maana vyama zingine ziko na maneno.’ Kama kuna chama hakitanipatia tiketi, mimi nitaenda hata independently, lakini mimi naskiza wananchi. Nataka kuhakikishia watu wa Kakamega kuwa mimi nitaenda mpaka kwa debe. Nimeamua na niko na msukumo wa wananchi,” she added.
Muhanda maintained that her campaign strategy will be rooted in grassroots mobilisation and direct engagement with voters across the county.
She said her focus remains on listening to residents and responding to their aspirations rather than becoming distracted by political rumours and internal party dynamics.
Her declaration is expected to intensify political activity in Kakamega County, where succession politics are already beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 polls.
The governor’s race is anticipated to attract several prominent political figures as leaders position themselves to succeed the county’s current administration.
Political analysts expect competition for the seat to increase in the coming months as aspirants ramp up grassroots campaigns and seek endorsements from influential political actors across the region.
Muhanda’s announcement now places her among the early contenders seeking to shape the conversation around Kakamega’s future leadership as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather momentum.
