Tim Wanyonyi explains intrigues behind ditching city politics for Bungoma
By Nancy Marende, July 15, 2025Westlands Member of Parliament (MP) Tim Wanyonyi has opened up about his decision to shift his political focus from Nairobi to Bungoma County, where he plans to run for governor in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a local radio station on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, Wanyonyi revealed a mix of public demand, personal conviction, and political betrayal that influenced his choice.
“I received a lot of delegation from Bungoma telling me that they would love me to be the governor of Bungoma. I listened extensively and got to a point and decided I should,” he said.
“ I went to Bungoma and met with all the MCAs and all the MPs except one, of course, and they all had the same plea. And sometimes we say the voice of the people is the voice of God. I listened and made a decision that I will go and vie for the seat in 2027,” he stated.
The legislator emphasised that he is within his constitutional and democratic rights to contest in any part of the country, including his home county of Bungoma.
‘I am within my democratic right to campaign and vie in Bungoma and anywhere else because it is my right,” he said.
Further, Wanyonyi stressed that his decision to contest in Bungoma was not engineered by anyone and dismissed claims that he could be someone’s political project.
Wanyonyi’s bid
This comes two days after he officially declared his intention to vie for the Bungoma County gubernatorial seat.
Speaking during a press briefing on Saturday, July 12, 2025, the lawmaker emphasised his deep connection to Bungoma and outlined his vision to unlock the county’s potential through inclusive leadership.
“I have come here as a candidate seeking to run as governor of Bungoma. Bungoma is a very strategic county, the third largest in Kenya. The potential in this county is huge, and we need to tap it,” Wanyonyi said.
He emphasised the need to meaningfully involve young people, noting that youth inclusion and economic empowerment would be central pillars of his campaign.
Wanyonyi acknowledged the diversity of the county, which is home to a mix of communities and active social groups, stating that he intends to build a broad coalition of supporters.
“All the interests in Bungoma, business groups, religious groups, various communities — I know there are many operating from here. When we enter the ground, we will find people who will support us, and we will walk together to make sure we fulfil this journey well.”