Former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo has officially announced his candidacy for the Siaya gubernatorial seat in the upcoming 2027 elections, paving the way for a competitive political battle against incumbent Governor James Orengo.
Gumbo revealed his ambitions during a rally in Siaya, where he received a warm welcome back to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) from Deputy Party Leader Oburu Oginga, following his recent return from the United Democratic Movement (UDM).
“There is one individual from Siaya who has been away from our party for some time, despite being a founding member. His name is Nicholas Gumbo, and I want to welcome him back to the party,” Oburu stated as he presented Gumbo with the ODM party cap, symbolizing his reintegration.
After departing UDM in 2022 due to a setback in the ODM gubernatorial nominations, Gumbo sought the Siaya governorship under the UDM banner, partnering with former police spokesperson Charles Owino as his running mate, but ultimately lost to Orengo in the August 2022 General Election.
Following his official return, Gumbo swiftly articulated his political aspirations. “Today, I want to announce, through our party leader, that next year, God willing, I will run for the governorship of Siaya to redeem this county,” he declared, eliciting cheers from his supporters.
In a pointed remark directed at the current governor, Gumbo asserted, “Orengo bye-bye,” signaling his determination to present a formidable challenge to the seasoned politician.
Gumbo characterized his return to ODM as a heartfelt homecoming, emphasizing his status as one of the party’s founding members. “It is wonderful to be back home. I am a founder member of ODM, and I am thrilled to return. Thank you, party leader, thank you, deputy party leader, and thank you, Madam Chair Lady,” he expressed.
He also urged fellow party members to unite behind Oburu as he endeavors to fortify and unify the party in Siaya and beyond. “Let us campaign for party unity,” Gumbo advocated, stressing that internal cohesion is crucial for ODM’s success in the forthcoming election cycle.
Oburu, for his part, indicated the party’s commitment to solidifying its foundation ahead of the 2027 elections, affirming that ODM remains open to welcoming back leaders eager to collaborate under its banner.
Gumbo’s declaration is poised to escalate early campaigning in Siaya County, as political alignments begin to take shape well in advance of the 2027 polls.
