A political storm is steadily brewing in Kakamega County as residents from the northern belt intensify calls to take control of the county’s top leadership in the 2027 General Election, citing years of neglect and stalled development.
For over a decade since the advent of devolution, locals from sub-counties such as Malava, Navakholo, Matete, Lugari, and Likuyani say they have watched from the sidelines as development projects flourish in other parts of the county. The growing discontent has now crystallised into a bold political strategy — fronting one of their own for the gubernatorial seat.
Rising Discontent Over Unequal Development
Residents accuse the current administration led by Governor Fernandes Barasa of skewing development toward the western and central parts of the county, including Mumias East, Mumias West, Butere, Matungu, and Khwisero.
While these regions boast completed and ongoing multi-million-shilling projects, the northern zone continues to grapple with poor infrastructure, limited investment, and stalled public initiatives.
The frustration has fueled a growing “one-term” narrative against Barasa, with locals vowing to vote him out in 2027.
“We cannot continue being spectators in our own county. Development must be equitable,” one resident from Likuyani remarked during a recent public forum.
Historical Political Grievances
The resentment is not just about development — it is deeply rooted in past political decisions.
During the tenure of former governor Wycliffe Oparanya, many in the northern region felt betrayed when his then-deputy, Professor Philip Kutima, was overlooked as a potential successor.
Instead, Oparanya endorsed Barasa, a move that did not sit well with residents who had hoped Kutima — seen as experienced and capable — would ascend to the top seat.
When Barasa later picked Ayub Savula as his deputy, it further reinforced perceptions that the northern bloc had been politically sidelined.
Emergence of Dr Beatrice Inyangala
Amid the dissatisfaction, a new political figure has emerged as the face of hope for the region — Beatrice Inyangala.
Currently serving as Principal Secretary in the State Department for Higher Education and Research under President William Ruto, Dr Inyangala is gaining traction as a formidable gubernatorial contender.
Her political profile is not new to Kakamega voters. In the 2022 elections, she was the running mate to Cleophas Malala in a fiercely contested race that ultimately saw Barasa clinch victory.
Now, with growing backing from northern sub-counties, residents are urging her to make another attempt — this time at the top seat.
A Candidate Built on Credentials
Dr Inyangala’s appeal lies heavily in her professional background and track record in education and policy development.
An accomplished scholar, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Geography, a Master’s in Planning and Economics of Education, and a PhD obtained at just 33 years of age.
She has served in key academic and policy institutions, including Moi University, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, and the Commission for University Education.
Her involvement in shaping education policies — including contributions during President Ruto’s tenure as Education Cabinet Secretary — has further strengthened her reputation as a results-oriented leader.
To many residents, she represents a shift from traditional politics to technocratic leadership.
Political Realignments Ahead of 2027
Kakamega County, with a population of approximately 1.86 million according to the 2019 census, remains a critical political battleground in Western Kenya.
The county’s 13 sub-counties — led by Malava as the most populous — present a complex electoral matrix where regional voting patterns often determine outcomes.
Northern leaders now believe that their numerical strength, combined with strategic alliances and a unified candidate, could tilt the balance of power.
There is also a growing expectation that women voters will rally behind Inyangala, potentially boosting her candidacy as she eyes becoming the county’s first female governor.
A County at a Crossroads
As tensions rise, the political landscape in Kakamega is becoming increasingly polarised. Public spats between Governor Barasa and Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda have only added fuel to an already volatile environment.
Against this backdrop, Dr Inyangala is being positioned as a calm, professional, and unifying figure — a leader capable of bridging divides and steering the county toward inclusive development.
Whether this groundswell of support will translate into electoral victory remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the northern region is no longer willing to remain silent.
As 2027 approaches, the battle for Kakamega’s soul is not just about leadership — it is about equity, representation, and the long-awaited promise of development.
