Setback For Ruto as UDA MP Throws Weight Behind Linda Mwananchi Candidate

Mt Elgon MP Fred Kapondi has publicly backed Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi’s bid for the Bungoma governorship, despite being a member of President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Kapondi declared his support for Wanyonyi during a political rally in Cheptais on Sunday, November 1, in a move that adds to the growing number of leaders supporting the gubernatorial aspirant ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The endorsement is significant because UDA has its own candidate for the Bungoma seat in Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa. Kapondi’s decision to support Wanyonyi therefore places him behind a candidate who is competing against his party’s preferred aspirant.

Speaking at the gathering, the Mt Elgon legislator praised Wanyonyi, saying he had demonstrated commitment to the welfare of residents through his continued engagement with the community.

“We have our governor here who has been visiting us and sometimes sending his representative to our functions. He will address you, and once he is done, he will leave you with something. He has been doing it and he will do it again here,” Kapondi said.

Wanyonyi, who recently joined Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s Linda Mwananchi Movement, used the rally to outline some of his priorities if elected governor.

He promised to focus on improving roads in the region, arguing that better infrastructure would make it easier for farmers to transport their produce to markets.

The Westlands MP also said he wanted to work with residents to address challenges affecting the county, asking them to support his gubernatorial ambitions.

Kapondi’s endorsement adds to the political backing Wanyonyi has received from other Bungoma lawmakers. According to reports, the aspirant now enjoys support from eight of the county’s nine MPs.

The developments point to shifting political alliances in Bungoma as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 polls, with Wanyonyi and Barasa emerging as key contenders in the race to succeed Governor Kenneth Lusaka.

LINK: https://www.tuko.co.ke/politics/645288-blow-ruto-uda-mp-backs-linda-mwananchi-gubernatorial-aspirant/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAcGRvZgRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA80MDk5NjI2MjMwODU2MDkAAR9nPn2mqK9fSqsRAQOdWb5hjkCMIto4i-yYoB-QCDHqHsno79wF4T_sAPJaMg_aem_ixkQ9OF610BUsxh_Inf9bg