Lusaka Warns Western Leaders Over Deputy President Ambitions
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has issued a firm caution to three prominent figures from the Luhya community, placing Wycliffe Oparanya, Moses Wetangula and Musalia Mudavadi on notice regarding any efforts to push President William Ruto into selecting one of them as a running mate.
The governor made it clear that such pressure for the deputy president slot does not reflect the true priorities of the community he represents. Instead of chasing the second-highest office, Lusaka stressed that attention must remain fixed on securing the president’s successful return to power.
According to the governor, members of the Luhya community hold little interest in occupying the deputy position at this stage of the political cycle. He argued that energy spent lobbying for the role would distract from more important goals and could create unnecessary tension within the broader support base. Lusaka positioned the community’s collective strength as best directed toward a unified effort that strengthens the current administration rather than dividing it over succession questions.
The warning comes at a time when political conversations in western parts of the country have grown increasingly focused on future leadership arrangements. Lusaka’s remarks serve as a direct message that any public or private campaigning for the deputy slot by the named leaders risks undermining the shared objective of reelection. He presented the stance as one rooted in practical strategy rather than personal rivalry, urging restraint so that the region can present a solid front.
By emphasizing reelection as the central focus, the Bungoma governor sought to rally support around tangible achievements and ongoing development programs linked to the current leadership. He implied that delivering continued progress for the people would ultimately prove more valuable than immediate claims on high office. This approach, in his view, positions the community for greater influence in the longer term while avoiding short-term political friction.
Lusaka’s intervention highlights the careful balancing act required among regional leaders as the next election cycle approaches. With the message now public, the three politicians have been left to consider the governor’s advice carefully. The call for restraint underscores a preference for collective stability and concentrated campaigning over competing personal ambitions for the deputy role.
