Speaking during a rally in Siaya Town on Saturday, Oburu officially welcomed Gumbo back to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), signalling a dramatic shift in the county’s political landscape.
His endorsement immediately set the stage for what could be one of the fiercest gubernatorial contests in the region’s recent history.
If Gumbo throws his hat into the ring again, it will mark his third attempt at clinching the Siaya governorship. He previously contested in 2017 and 2022 but lost both times.
If Gumbo throws his hat into the ring again, it will mark his third attempt at clinching the Siaya governorship. He previously contested in 2017 and 2022 but lost both times.
In 2022, after failing to secure the ODM ticket, Gumbo decamped from the party and ran as an independent candidate against Orengo, but was ultimately defeated.
Oburu’s latest move is widely seen as a bold political statement, especially considering Siaya is regarded as a stronghold of ODM and home turf for veteran opposition leader Raila Odinga.
Analysts say the endorsement could reshape alliances within the county and spark renewed rivalry between seasoned political heavyweights.
Governor Orengo, a long-serving politician and senior counsel, has remained influential within ODM despite reported internal divisions.
He is associated with a faction of leaders that includes Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, deputy party leader Godfrey Osotsi, and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino — a grouping that has occasionally appeared at odds with other senior figures within the party.
Political observers note that Oburu’s public backing of Gumbo may deepen those divisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Political observers note that Oburu’s public backing of Gumbo may deepen those divisions ahead of the 2027 elections.
The development raises questions about whether ODM will face a bruising nomination battle in Siaya or whether consensus politics will prevail before the polls.
For Gumbo, the endorsement offers renewed political lifeline and a chance at redemption after two unsuccessful bids.
For Gumbo, the endorsement offers renewed political lifeline and a chance at redemption after two unsuccessful bids.
However, unseating an incumbent governor — particularly one with Orengo’s political experience and loyal support base — will not be an easy task.
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