A fierce political battle for the Kisumu gubernatorial seat played out in full view of President William Ruto during his development tour of Kisumu County, as Senator Tom Ojienda and Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron staged a high-stakes show of political muscle.

Supporters of both leaders turned the head of state’s first local engagement into a arena of political supremacy ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Taking the stage first, Prof Ojienda lauded President Ruto’s development record in the region and assured him of Kisumu’s backing in 2027. His address electrified the venue, triggering an outburst of loud cheers from his supporters countered by jeers from Dr Oron’s camp.

When Dr Oron stepped up to address the energized crowd, he pivoted to an emotional plea on behalf of local residents suffering from chronic flooding across Kisumu County.

“Your Excellency, I plead that you set aside just KSh 50 million as we await the completion of the Koru-Soin Dam project. That amount will mitigate the immediate flood menace as the mega-project continues,” Dr Oron urged.

The political duel highlights the growing rivalry between the two frontrunners aiming to succeed Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o in 2027.

Other contenders who addressed the gatherings received a lukeworm reception as the race shapes into a two horse race both eying the ODM party ticket.