"Bungoma Deserves a Senator Who Knows the Constitution," Lusaka Says in Swipe at Rivals Ahead of 2027

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has intensified the political debate ahead of the 2027 General Election, calling on residents to elect a Senator who understands the constitutional responsibilities of the office rather than one driven by political theatrics.

Speaking during the final send-off of the late Leonard Wanyonyi Nyongesa, the Senior Assistant Chief of Maliki Sub-Location, Lusaka said Bungoma needs a leader capable of providing objective oversight, defending the county's interests at the national level and respecting the constitutional boundaries of the Senate.

Without mentioning anyone by name, the governor appeared to take a swipe at political rivals, arguing that the office of the Senator should not be used to perform duties constitutionally assigned to Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).

"Bungoma deserves a Senator who understands the constitutional role of oversight and can effectively champion the county's interests at the national level, not one preoccupied with roles reserved for Members of the County Assembly," Lusaka said.

His remarks come amid growing political activity in Bungoma as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 polls, with the Senate seat expected to attract stiff competition.

Lusaka emphasized that the Constitution clearly outlines the responsibilities of Senators, noting that their primary role is to oversee county governments, participate in legislation affecting counties and represent county interests in the Senate. He cautioned against what he described as attempts by some politicians to redefine the office through publicity campaigns and political rhetoric.

"The Senate's oversight role must be exercised objectively, professionally and within the confines of the Constitution. It should never be reduced to political showmanship or personal campaigns," he said.

The governor urged residents to scrutinize leaders based on their understanding of constitutional mandates rather than political slogans, warning that election seasons often bring narratives designed to mislead voters.

"Bungoma deserves sober, objective oversight, not political gimmicks meant to confuse voters into granting another term," he said.

Lusaka called on elected leaders to remain focused on service delivery instead of engaging in unnecessary political confrontations, saying development should remain the priority for both county and national leaders.

The governor made the remarks while leading mourners in paying tribute to the late Leonard Wanyonyi Nyongesa, whom he described as a dedicated public servant who faithfully served the people of Maliki Sub-Location and upheld integrity throughout his career in the National Government Administration.

During the ceremony, Lusaka also lauded President William Ruto for introducing what he described as one of the most comprehensive welfare improvement packages for chiefs and assistant chiefs in recent years.

He welcomed the government's decision to promote all trained chiefs and assistant chiefs by one rank, saying the move would boost morale and motivate administrators serving at the grassroots.

The governor further praised the planned distribution of digital tablets to administrators, noting that the devices would improve efficiency in government operations, enhance record keeping and facilitate faster delivery of public services.

He also welcomed the government's plan to procure more than 3,000 vehicles for chiefs and assistant chiefs across the country, saying improved mobility would enable administrators to respond more effectively to security concerns, coordinate development programmes and deliver government services in remote areas.

Lusaka further commended plans to provide specialized induction and paralegal training for administrators, arguing that the additional skills would strengthen conflict resolution, improve legal awareness and enhance service delivery at the community level.

He challenged chiefs and assistant chiefs to reciprocate the government's investment by remaining committed to implementing development programmes and ensuring government projects are successfully delivered to wananchi.

"The enhanced welfare package should inspire our administrators to serve with greater commitment and efficiency as they spearhead the government's development agenda at the grassroots," Lusaka said.

Turning to development within Bungoma County, the governor highlighted several infrastructure projects undertaken by his administration, saying improved road networks are opening up rural areas, facilitating trade and stimulating economic growth.

Among the projects he cited was the completion of the Naitiri–Brigadier Road, which he said has significantly improved connectivity for residents and eased transportation of agricultural produce to markets.

He added that his administration remains committed to investing in roads, healthcare, water projects and other critical infrastructure aimed at improving the quality of life for Bungoma residents.

Lusaka also used the occasion to rally support for President William Ruto's anticipated re-election bid in 2027.

In his capacity as President Ruto's Western Kenya re-election coordinator, the governor urged residents to back the Head of State for a second term, arguing that continuity in leadership would accelerate ongoing development projects and attract additional government investments to the region.

He said the Kenya Kwanza administration has initiated transformative programmes in infrastructure, agriculture and economic empowerment, expressing confidence that a second term would consolidate those gains and deliver more opportunities for the people of Western Kenya.

As political temperatures continue to rise ahead of the next General Election, Lusaka's remarks are expected to fuel debate over the role of Senators and the nature of oversight in county governance, with constitutional responsibilities likely to remain a key issue in the campaigns leading up to 2027.