BUNGOMA: Kimilili lawmaker Didmus Barasa has launched a scathing critique against former Bungoma Governor Wafula Wangamati, describing his tenure as akin to a vehicle that met with an unfortunate accident along the journey.

Mr. Barasa, who has set his sight on the Bungoma gubernatorial seat, urged the residents of Bungoma County to throw their support behind him.

“Wangamati was entrusted with the task of developing Bungoma from 2017 to 2022. However, like a vehicle headed towards a specific destination, it veered off course and encountered a breakdown,” remarked the second-term lawmaker.

He implored the electorate in Bungoma to disregard Mr. Wangamati and instead, align themselves with his candidacy, which he asserts is dependable.

“In 2027, if Wangamati seeks to reclaim the same seat, do not entrust him with your support. His vehicle is damaged and susceptible to further mishaps. The vehicle under the leadership of Didmus Wekesa Barasa is a reliable one that will safely reach its destination,” he emphasized.

Mr. Barasa, who intends to contest the county’s top seat on a Ford Kenya ticket, has emerged as a vocal critic of the DAP-Kenya party, led by former Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa.

Falling out with Moses Wetangula

Mr. Wangamati unsuccessfully defended his seat in 2022 under a DAP ticket, following a fallout with Moses Wetangula, the leader of the Ford Kenya party.

Apart from the Orange Democratic Movement, which holds significant seats in the Mulembe Nation, DAP managed to secure some seats in Kakamega as well as Bungoma Counties.

Bungoma County is widely considered to be the stronghold of Mr. Wetangula, who serves as the National Assembly speaker and has a lot of influence on who becomes the next governor.

As the region prepares for the 2027 polls, which are three years away, Mr. Barasa faces competition from Wangamati and PS Juma Mukhwana, both of whom have expressed interest in the same seat.

While unconfirmed opinion polls currently position Kimilili lawmaker as a potential contender likely to succeed Kenneth Lusaka, who is serving his second term after losing to Wangamati in 2017.

samuelnjuguna@kondelenews.co.ke