Sirisia Member of Parliament John Koyi Waluke has reaffirmed his support for Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi's bid for the Bungoma gubernatorial seat, emphasizing that his backing stands regardless of the political party Wanyonyi chooses to represent.

Waluke made the declaration in a video shared on his social media on Friday, July 31, 2026, shortly after Wanyonyi aligned himself with the Linda Mwananchi political movement led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. The move places the two MPs on opposing sides politically, as Waluke remains a key campaign mobilizer for President William Ruto in Western Kenya.

Backing Beyond Party Lines

"We are not concerned about the party Tim Wanyonyi will come with; we will support him in whichever outfit he comes with because he is the right person to be Bungoma governor," Waluke said. He highlighted Wanyonyi's leadership qualities, experience, and vision for transforming Bungoma into an "island of prosperity," a goal long sought by the county's residents.

Waluke has been actively campaigning alongside Wanyonyi in Bungoma, underscoring his commitment despite their divergent political affiliations. This continued partnership reflects Waluke's belief in Wanyonyi's capability to lead the county effectively.

Political Divide Deepens

Wanyonyi’s recent endorsement of Senator Edwin Sifuna’s presidential campaign and his public display of support through campaign branding have intensified the political divide. While Wanyonyi has embraced the Linda Mwananchi movement, which opposes President Ruto’s re-election, Waluke remains firmly in Ruto’s camp.

Despite initial uncertainty following Wanyonyi’s shift, Waluke clarified that the use of campaign materials featuring both Wanyonyi and Sifuna does not necessarily confirm a formal defection to the Linda Mwananchi faction.

Endorsements and Political Predictions

  • Senator Edwin Sifuna has openly backed Wanyonyi’s gubernatorial ambitions and expressed confidence that the next Bungoma governor will emerge from the Linda Mwananchi movement.
  • Sifuna has also predicted political difficulties for Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, accusing him of disrupting one of his meetings during the funeral of former Bungoma Governor Wafula Wangamati.