Speaking to residents at Kimaeti RC in Bumula Constituency during a political tour that attracted local leaders, opinion shapers and residents, Wanyonyi said Bungoma's greatest asset is its people and pledged to ensure county resources directly benefit them if elected governor.
"Bungoma is rich in one resource that no one can take away from us—our people. Our responsibility as leaders is to create opportunities that allow that potential to be seen and rewarded," Wanyonyi said.
He added:
"If entrusted with the leadership of this county, I will ensure that the resources meant for Bungoma work for the people of Bungoma."
The remarks come as political activity continues to intensify across Bungoma, with aspirants traversing the county in an early bid to win support ahead of what is expected to be one of Kenya's most competitive gubernatorial contests.
Local Jobs and Contracts Top Wanyonyi's Agenda
Wanyonyi said one of his first priorities would be ensuring that county tenders, procurement opportunities and employment opportunities benefit Bungoma residents before outsiders.
According to the MP, county governments should serve as engines of economic growth by creating opportunities that improve the lives of ordinary citizens.
"I encourage our people to prepare themselves. The contracts, jobs and business opportunities created by the county should first lift the lives of our own people and strengthen our local economy."
He argued that empowering local contractors, entrepreneurs and small businesses would stimulate economic growth, create employment and increase household incomes across the county.
Political observers note that unemployment and economic empowerment are emerging as dominant issues likely to shape campaigns across Bungoma as voters demand practical solutions to the rising cost of living.
Healthcare Reform Takes Centre Stage
Healthcare formed a key pillar of Wanyonyi's vision, with the MP promising to restore confidence in county health facilities by improving infrastructure, equipping hospitals and ensuring reliable medical services.
"We must also restore confidence in our health facilities by improving the quality of healthcare and ensuring every resident can access dependable medical services."
Residents in Bungoma have consistently raised concerns over shortages of drugs, medical personnel and equipment in some public hospitals, making healthcare one of the defining issues likely to influence the next gubernatorial election.
Youth, Women and Boda Boda Sector to Receive Greater Support
Wanyonyi also pledged to work closely with youth groups, boda boda SACCOs and women's organisations through empowerment programmes aimed at creating sustainable livelihoods.
"At the same time, we will work closely with youth groups, boda boda SACCOs and women groups because empowering our people is the surest way of building a stronger county."
He said empowering grassroots groups would not only reduce unemployment but also strengthen the county's economy from the bottom up.
Calls for Unity as He Backs Edwin Sifuna
The MP also used the meeting to urge residents to remain united and support the political aspirations of Edwin W. Sifuna, saying unity has historically been the driving force behind successful political movements.
"History has shown that when people believe in a common cause and stand together, no amount of money or material inducement can silence the voice of a determined people."
He said lasting political change can only be achieved when communities remain focused on shared aspirations rather than short-term incentives.
The meeting was attended by former Bumula MP Bifwoli Wakoli, whom Wanyonyi described as his political mentor, Women Representative aspirants Sween Khayanga and Rebecca Masibayi, together with several MCA aspirants who pledged support for the #SiMimiNiSisi movement.
A Fierce Battle to Succeed Governor Ken Lusaka
Wanyonyi enters a crowded race that is already shaping up to be one of the most closely watched political contests in Western Kenya.
Among his key rivals is Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, who has publicly declared his interest in the governorship and has been conducting extensive grassroots mobilisation across the county. Barasa has consistently promised to improve healthcare, infrastructure and economic opportunities while highlighting his working relationship with President William Ruto and the national government.
Former Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati is also seeking a political comeback after losing the seat to Kenneth Lusaka in 2022. Wangamati is expected to campaign on his record in office between 2017 and 2022 while seeking to convince voters that his administration laid a strong foundation for the county's development.
Businessman Zachariah Barasa has equally declared his interest in the seat, bringing a private-sector perspective into the contest. His increasing public engagements and outreach campaigns have positioned him as another candidate to watch in what analysts predict will be a highly competitive race.
Political analysts believe the Bungoma governorship will largely be decided by which candidate presents the most convincing plan for job creation, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure development and prudent management of county resources.
Political Experience vs Fresh Campaign Narratives
Wanyonyi, a seasoned parliamentarian who has represented Westlands Constituency for several terms, is banking on his legislative experience, development record and national political profile to persuade Bungoma voters that he can effectively steer the county into its next phase of development.
His rivals, however, are expected to campaign on different strengths. Didmus Barasa is likely to lean on his ties to the Kenya Kwanza administration, Wangamati on his previous experience as governor, while Zachariah Barasa is expected to present himself as a fresh alternative with a business-oriented approach to governance.
With months of campaigning still ahead, the contest is expected to feature intense grassroots mobilisation, policy debates and shifting political alliances.
What Lies Ahead
As campaigns gather momentum, Bungoma voters are expected to closely scrutinise each candidate's promises, leadership record and ability to deliver meaningful development.
For Tim Wanyonyi, the challenge will be transforming campaign pledges into a message that resonates across the county's diverse communities. For his competitors, the task will be convincing voters that they offer a better path for Bungoma's future.
With Governor Kenneth Lusaka preparing to exit office at the end of his final term, the battle to determine Bungoma's next governor is only beginning—but it is already emerging as one of the defining political contests to watch ahead of the 2027 General Election.
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