Governors Fernandes Barasa (Kakamega), Paul Otuoma (Busia), Wilbur Ottichilo (Vihiga), Ken Lusaka (Bungoma) and Cooperatives CS Wycliffe Oparanya expressed full support for the party leadership under Oburu Oginga to steer the talks. “Our first choice is to be with President William Ruto,” Otuoma said, emphasising continuity with the broad-based government. Ottichilo noted that the four governors agreed to support whatever decision the party takes for 2027, focusing on both political and development strategies. The committee directed that structured negotiations with political formations, starting with UDA, commence “immediately”. Weighing in, Lusaka said engagement with UDA is critical for regional unity and sending the right political, economic and social signals to constituents.

Source: The Star January 15, 2026 08:19 UTC