Former Kisumu Governor Jack Ranguma has confirmed that he will contest for the county’s top seat once again, setting up what is expected to be one of the most competitive gubernatorial races in the region.
Ranguma says he is seeking another opportunity to lead the county, arguing that his administration’s work between 2013 and 2017 laid a strong foundation for development.
His return is expected to alter the political landscape, particularly among candidates hoping to secure support from the vote-rich Kano region.
Ranguma lost his re-election bid in 2017 after Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o won the ODM nomination.
He subsequently ran as an independent candidate but was defeated in the general election. He challenged the outcome in court, although his petition was unsuccessful.
He again contested the governorship in the 2022 General Election but lost to Nyong’o.
Now preparing for another attempt, Ranguma says he intends to build on both his previous administration’s achievements and the progress made under Governor Nyong’o.
During his first term, Ranguma’s administration was credited with expanding road infrastructure, installing street lighting in various parts of the county and constructing Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres.
He also recruited nurses and community health workers, many of whom remain in service.
His entry is expected to intensify competition among other aspirants, particularly those from Kano, including Kisumu Central MP Dr Joshua Oron, former Chief Administrative Secretary Ken Obura and Rodgers Okeya.
Political observers say Ranguma’s return could divide support that some candidates had hoped to consolidate within the Kano voting bloc.
Other politicians who have expressed interest in the governorship include Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Kisumu Deputy Governor Dr Mathew Owili, Senator Tom Ojienda, Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu and Kisumu Woman Representative Ruth Odinga.
Ranguma is currently the chairman of the Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA), a position he has used to promote savings and cooperative societies through engagements with women’s groups, youth organisations and community enterprises across the county.
He says the meetings are aimed at encouraging financial inclusion while also outlining his vision for Kisumu’s future.
Among the declared aspirants, Dr Oron has maintained a visible campaign, receiving backing from sections of Kano elders as well as Muhoroni MP James Onyango Koyoo.
The race comes at a significant moment in Kisumu and the wider Luo political landscape following the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga, whose influence shaped the region’s politics for decades.
Political analysts say the absence of the veteran leader could make the contest more open, with candidates seeking to build new political alliances ahead of the election.
With several high-profile contenders already in the race, Ranguma’s return is likely to add another layer of competition as the battle for Kisumu’s governorship gathers momentum.
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