Former KANU Senator Samuel Poghisio Joins ODM, Named 2027 West Pokot Governor Candidate

Former West Pokot Senator Samuel Poghisio has joined the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after officially leaving the Kenya African National Union (KANU), positioning himself for a possible return to elective politics in the 2027 General Election.

Poghisio formalised his defection on Tuesday, November 3, during a meeting at Chungwa House, ODM’s national headquarters in Nairobi, where he was received by Kisii Governor and ODM deputy party leader Simba Arati.

Announcing his decision, the former senator said he had left KANU to join what he described as a bigger political family.

“Mimi nimetoka KANU, sasa nimeingia chama KUBWA ambayo ni familia kubwa sana,” Poghisio said.

ODM immediately indicated the political position it intends him to pursue, announcing him as its preferred candidate for the West Pokot gubernatorial seat in the 2027 elections.

“Our 2027 Gubernatorial candidate for the West Pokot County… Samuel Poghisio,” the party announced.

Poghisio’s entry into ODM comes as the party intensifies efforts to expand its national presence and attract influential political figures ahead of the next general election.

Arati, who has been instrumental in recruiting leaders into the party, said ODM was open to welcoming politicians from across the political divide, including President William Ruto.

The Kisii governor revealed that he intended to reach out to the Head of State, arguing that the party had the capacity to accommodate additional political figures while supporting its candidates.

Arati also announced plans for nationwide political rallies aimed at strengthening ODM’s grassroots structures and preparing the party for the 2027 elections. He said the mobilisation drive was part of efforts to secure a strong electoral showing in honour of the late former party leader Raila Odinga.

Meanwhile, Poghisio’s anticipated gubernatorial bid sets up a potentially competitive contest in West Pokot.

The county is currently led by Governor Simon Kachapin, who is serving his final term. However, former governor John Lonyangapuo has also expressed interest in reclaiming the seat.

Poghisio will therefore have to navigate party nominations and competition from other aspirants as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.

His defection also adds another political figure to ODM’s growing recruitment drive as parties reposition themselves for the next electoral contest.

https://www.tuko.co.ke/politics/645443-win-odm-kanu-senator-joins-party-2027-poll-gubernatorial-candidate/

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