{"id":24409,"date":"2026-05-30T11:57:31","date_gmt":"2026-05-30T11:57:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/?p=24409"},"modified":"2026-07-25T19:42:11","modified_gmt":"2026-07-25T19:42:11","slug":"kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/index.php\/2026\/05\/30\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\/","title":{"rendered":"Kisumu governorship: The battle to succeed Nyong&#8217;o"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The race to become Kisumu&#8217;s next governor in 2027 is intensifying, as Prof Peter Anyang&#8217; Nyong&#8217;o prepares to step down after serving his final constitutional term.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prof Nyong&#8217;o, who was first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, is barred from seeking a third term. The contest to replace him is being watched closely not only because of the county&#8217;s economic importance but because Kisumu is the political heartland of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party and the Luo community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Political analysts say the outcome will shape ODM&#8217;s future beyond its long-time leader, Raila Odinga, and could determine the region&#8217;s political direction for years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ODM dominance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Kisumu, securing the ODM nomination has historically been seen as equivalent to winning the governorship itself. The county has voted overwhelmingly for the party in every election since 2007.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although ODM has recently softened its stance towards President William Ruto&#8217;s administration with several party leaders engaging with the government grassroots voters in Kisumu remain largely loyal to the party&#8217;s traditional opposition identity, according to political observers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This leaves aspirants with a difficult balance. Those seen as too close to the national government risk alienating ODM loyalists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> Those who maintain a hardline opposition stance may struggle to access development funding and partnership opportunities from Nairobi.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The main contenders<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several politicians have already positioned themselves to succeed Prof Nyong&#8217;o.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr Joshua Oron, the member of parliament for Kisumu Central, has been touring all seven sub-counties since his election in 2022. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"682\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-682x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24411 lazyload\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-682x1024.jpeg 682w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-200x300.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-768x1153.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-1023x1536.jpeg 1023w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-680x1021.jpeg 680w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM-20x30.jpeg 20w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.09.59-PM.jpeg 1066w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 682px) 100vw, 682px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><em>Kisumu Central MP Dr Joshua Oron who is eying for the governor&#8217;s seat in 2027 General Elections\/Photo: Maurice Alal <\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His supporters say he represents generational change. He comes from Nyando, part of the larger Kano region, which believes it is entitled to reclaim the governorship after former Governor Jack Ranguma&#8217;s two defeats by Prof Nyong&#8217;o in 2017 and 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dr Oron&#8217;s political style emphasises accessibility and grassroots engagement. Analysts say he has succeeded in positioning himself as a candidate of change while maintaining close contact with ordinary voters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Senator Prof Tom Ojienda is widely considered the most financially resourced candidate. Since his election to the Senate in 2022, he has launched empowerment programmes for youth, women, traders and community groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"852\" height=\"867\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24412 lazyload\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM.jpeg 852w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM-295x300.jpeg 295w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM-768x782.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM-680x692.jpeg 680w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM-200x204.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.13.03-PM-20x20.jpeg 20w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 852px) 100vw, 852px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><em>Kisumu Senator Prof. Tom Ojienda<\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> His academic and legal background appeals to professionals and middle-class voters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, some voters question his ideological consistency, noting his earlier cooperation with President Ruto&#8217;s administration before ODM formally changed its position on government engagement. Critics also argue that despite his resources, he has struggled to build genuine political structures at the local level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owili is expected to campaign on continuity and administrative experience. He has served directly under Prof Nyong&#8217;o throughout the current administration. His deep familiarity with county operations gives him an advantage in governance credentials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"842\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-1024x842.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24413 lazyload\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-1024x842.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-300x247.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-768x631.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-1100x904.jpeg 1100w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-680x559.jpeg 680w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-200x164.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM-20x16.jpeg 20w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.24.57-PM.jpeg 1280w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><strong>Deputy Governor Dr Mathews Owil<\/strong>i<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">His chances may depend on whether the governor endorses him and whether ODM party structures rally behind him. Succession politics, however, often favour candidates associated with generational transition rather than continuity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other potential candidates include former Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura, Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu, and senior Nyakach politician Aduma Owuor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mr Obura, a former Chief Administrative Secretary in the East African Community ministry, has intensified grassroots campaigns across all seven sub-counties in recent months. His supporters believe his political experience and financial strength make him a serious contender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"824\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-824x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24414 lazyload\" style=\"width:825px;height:auto\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-824x1024.jpeg 824w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-241x300.jpeg 241w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-768x954.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-680x845.jpeg 680w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-200x249.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM-20x25.jpeg 20w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.06.51-PM.jpeg 902w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 824px) 100vw, 824px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><em>Former Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura<\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ms Buyu could attract women, youth and reform-oriented voters seeking alternatives to traditional political establishments. Even if she does not secure the ODM nomination, her support base could become influential during alliance negotiations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-1024x683.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24415 lazyload\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-1024x683.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-1100x734.jpeg 1100w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-680x453.jpeg 680w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-200x133.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM-20x13.jpeg 20w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.22.46-PM.jpeg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><em>Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu<\/em><\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mr Aduma, regarded as one of the most experienced politicians among the aspirants, is expected to rely heavily on his development record and political seniority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-1024x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-24416 lazyload\" data-sizes=\"auto\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-1024x1024.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-768x768.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-1100x1100.jpeg 1100w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-680x680.jpeg 680w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-200x200.jpeg 200w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM-20x20.jpeg 20w, https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.14.58-PM.jpeg 1254w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong><em>Nyakach MP Aduma Owuo<\/em><\/strong>r<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Clan and regional calculations<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Despite increasing urbanisation, clan and regional identity remain important factors in Kisumu elections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Kano community, which includes Nyando, Muhoroni and Nyakach, argues that its population size gives it a right to the governorship after Prof Nyong&#8217;o&#8217;s tenure. However, if multiple candidates from Kano such as Dr Oron, Prof Ojienda and Mr Aduma remain in the race, rival blocs from Kisumu East, Kisumu West and Seme could unite behind a single alternative candidate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">John Otieno a political analysts say the choice of running mate may become almost as significant as the governorship itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Candidates are expected to use the deputy governor slot to balance regional and clan interests and broaden countywide appeal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>National politics and ODM&#8217;s future<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to him, the succession battle is also being shaped by national politics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Candidates perceived to have quiet support from President Ruto&#8217;s administration could benefit from logistical advantages, development partnerships and access to state-linked political networks. But excessive proximity to Kenya Kwanza carries risks among ODM loyalists still protective of the party&#8217;s opposition identity,&#8221; he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Concerns over political violence<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some business leaders and residents have expressed concern about what they describe as the growing association of certain politicians with political intimidation and goonism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One businessman in Kisumu city, who spoke to <strong>The FocusPaper<\/strong> on condition of anonymity, said the stability and administrative order established during Prof Nyong&#8217;o&#8217;s tenure could be reversed if leaders linked to disorderly politics are elected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Some of us fear that the sanity and order restored under Nyong&#8217;o could easily collapse,&#8221; he said. &#8220;The county risks becoming ungovernable if politics of intimidation take root again.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Unpredictable race<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At this early stage, political observers say the race remains fluid. Dr Oron currently appears to have the strongest grassroots momentum. Prof Ojienda commands considerable financial and institutional strength. Dr Owili retains the advantages of incumbency within the county administration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, Kisumu politics has historically been unpredictable. Alliances, endorsements, clan negotiations and ODM internal dynamics are capable of rapidly reshaping the political landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The race to become Kisumu&#8217;s next governor in 2027 is intensifying, as Prof Peter Anyang&#8217; Nyong&#8217;o prepares to step down after serving his final constitutional term. Prof Nyong&#8217;o, who was first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, is barred from seeking a third term. The contest to replace him is being watched closely not [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":24410,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[69,29],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-24409","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-featured","category-politics"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Kisumu governorship: The battle to succeed Nyong&#039;o - The Focus Paper<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/index.php\/2026\/05\/30\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Kisumu governorship: The battle to succeed Nyong&#039;o - The Focus Paper\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The race to become Kisumu&#8217;s next governor in 2027 is intensifying, as Prof Peter Anyang&#8217; Nyong&#8217;o prepares to step down after serving his final constitutional term. Prof Nyong&#8217;o, who was first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, is barred from seeking a third term. The contest to replace him is being watched closely not [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/index.php\/2026\/05\/30\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"The Focus Paper\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-30T11:57:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-07-25T19:42:11+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.31.28-PM.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1280\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"853\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Maurice Alal\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Maurice Alal\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Maurice Alal\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/d10ffa15fbf385529b81d94627d18e21\"},\"headline\":\"Kisumu governorship: The battle to succeed Nyong&#8217;o\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-30T11:57:31+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-07-25T19:42:11+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":991,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/WhatsApp-Image-2026-05-29-at-9.31.28-PM.jpeg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Featured\",\"Politics\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/thefocuspaper.co.ke\\\/index.php\\\/2026\\\/05\\\/30\\\/kisumu-governorship-the-battle-to-succeed-nyongo\\\/\",\"name\":\"Kisumu governorship: The battle to succeed Nyong'o - 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