Wanyonyi Promises Better Opportunities for Bungoma Youth and Traders

By Isabella Maua

Westlands Member of the National Assembly Timothy Wanyonyi has expressed interest in the Bungoma gubernatorial seat, placing economic renewal, accountable leadership and improved livelihoods at the centre of his political ambitions ahead of the 2027 General Election.

While addressing hundreds of Catholic faithful at Chebukaka Parish in Kabuchai Constituency, Wanyonyi called on Bungoma residents to reconsider the county’s leadership and elect leaders with a clear development agenda and a proven commitment to public service.

He emphasised the need for integrity and accountability in leadership, arguing that the county requires a fresh direction to address the economic challenges facing residents and improve their living standards.

“Bungoma needs a fresh start, but that reset will only happen if we make the right choices at the ballot box and elect leaders with proven records of integrity and service,” he said.

Accompanied by Kabuchai Member of the County Assembly Eric Wekesa, the long-serving lawmaker presented his potential gubernatorial bid as a homecoming mission aimed at transforming the economic fortunes of Bungoma residents.

He pledged to prioritise development initiatives targeting women traders, young people and boda boda operators, sectors that provide livelihoods for many households.

Wanyonyi said his leadership would focus on practical interventions to improve opportunities for ordinary residents, particularly those who depend on small businesses and informal economic activities to support their families.

“My commitment to you is simple: your tomorrow must be better than your today. I have not come back home to play empty politics. I will work for you, stand by you, and walk this journey with our youth, mothers, and boda boda operators. I give you my word—I will not forsake nor disappoint you,” he reiterated.

In a separate political message, Wanyonyi expressed support for Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s prospective national ambitions, urging Bungoma residents to back his colleague as both leaders consider their political futures ahead of the next general election.

Reflecting on their political relationship in Nairobi, Wanyonyi said they had worked together during the early stages of Sifuna’s political journey and suggested that their respective ambitions were now taking different directions.

“I was among those who welcomed my brother Edwin Sifuna to Nairobi when he began his political journey, and together, we built momentum in the city. Time has come for him to pursue the national stage, while I dedicate my energy and experience to leading our home county of Bungoma,” stated Wanyonyi.

The lawmaker also cautioned politicians from both the government and opposition camps against engaging in divisive political campaigns, urging them to persuade voters through ideas and policy proposals rather than intimidation or confrontation.

He maintained that leadership should be built on the ability to convince citizens through clear plans and a commitment to addressing their concerns, particularly as political competition intensifies ahead of the 2027 polls.

“Leadership is not won through fear, intimidation, or raw force; true leadership is won by speaking directly to the hearts and minds of people and convincing them with ideas,” he added.