Tim Wanyonyi Shifts Focus to Bungoma Governorship, Drops Nairobi Bid Ahead of 2027 Elections

Westlands Member of Parliament Tim Wanyonyi has officially announced his intention to run for the Bungoma gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, dispelling long-standing speculation about a possible bid for the Nairobi governorship.

Speaking during an interview with Radio 47 on Monday, July 7, Wanyonyi revealed that serving the people of his native Bungoma County would be a meaningful culmination to his political career.

“As Tim Wanyonyi, I’m ready to go and serve the people of Bungoma now. My position is clear: in the next general elections, I will be vying for the Bungoma gubernatorial seat,” he stated.

This marks a significant shift from his previous focus on Nairobi politics. As recently as May 2024, Wanyonyi had reiterated plans to run for Nairobi Governor, recalling his 2022 campaign which was cut short due to unforeseen complications.

“I remember launching my campaign for Nairobi Governor and receiving endorsements from pastors and local residents. They promised to support me. But as I moved forward, challenges arose that prevented me from appearing on the ballot,” he explained.

“This time, I want to complete that journey—but now, in Bungoma,” he added.

Born in Mukwheya, Bungoma County, Wanyonyi began his parliamentary career in 2013 when he was first elected as the MP for Westlands. He was subsequently re-elected in 2017 and again in 2022, earning recognition for his consistent advocacy on disability rights and urban development.

His declaration comes amid growing political interest in Nairobi’s top county seat. On June 2, former KICC board chair and ex-Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera hinted at ambitions to run for Nairobi Governor. Speaking in a separate media interview, Nyakera announced that he had joined the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), aligned with Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, to focus on Nairobi politics.

Although Nyakera remained vague about his exact political intentions, he emphasized his alignment with DCP’s values.

“In Nairobi, I believe the party I can work with is the DCP. It is a party of integrity. Kenya and Nairobi need truth and real development,” Nyakera said.

His recent meeting with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka further fueled speculation, especially after Kalonzo appeared to offer his endorsement for Nyakera’s possible gubernatorial campaign.

As Nairobi politics heat up ahead of 2027, Wanyonyi’s exit from the capital race is likely to reshape the field, while Bungoma prepares for a high-profile contest featuring a seasoned lawmaker returning to his roots.