Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi has received a major endorsement from his home county to succeed former Prime Minister Raila Odinga as the region’s preeminent political leader.
The endorsement emerged from a closed-door meeting held on Friday at Kisumu’s Acacia Hotel between Wandayi and a caucus of Siaya County professionals.
While details were private, sources confirm the group unanimously agreed that Wandayi, the current Ugunja MP and National Assembly Leader of the Minority, is the “senior most political leader from Siaya county” and best positioned to fill the leadership vacuum left by Raila Odinga.
The meeting was attended by influential figures including Attorney General Dorcus Oduor, former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo, former police spokesperson Charles Owino, and Dr. Jalang’o Midiwo. The professionals argued that since Raila hails from Siaya, the region’s “kingpinship” should rightfully remain there.
This home-base support has been bolstered by declarations from Gem MP Elisha Odhiambo and Mathare’s Anthony Oluoch, who also cited Wandayi’s seniority.
However, Wandayi’s path is not unchallenged. He faces competition from figures aligned with President William Ruto’s administration, including Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Treasury CS John Mbadi, and Interior PS Raymond Omollo. A reported cold war has already erupted between Wanga and Omollo, signalling a fractious battle ahead.
All four contenders’ affiliation with President Ruto adds a complex national dimension to the succession race, making Wandayi’s bid to consolidate the traditionally opposition-friendly Luo vote a formidable task, despite his strong local backing.
The unfolding contest highlights the intense lobbying and regional calculations shaping the future of leadership in Raila Odinga’s political stronghold.
