Cornel Rasanga, the former governor of Siaya, has declared his intention to run for the county’s senatorial seat, openly inviting a contest with the incumbent, Oburu Oginga, should he seek re-election.
Speaking during a thanksgiving prayer at his home in Segere, Rasanga struck a measured but firm tone. He acknowledged his long-standing ties with Mr Oginga, even as he signalled a willingness to face him at the ballot.
“The party leader is a friend of mine; he is a relative of mine. It is his right to declare that he wants to defend his seat,” Rasanga said.
But the former governor did not hide his disappointment. He suggested there had been an understanding between them over the seat, one he now believes has not been honored.
“He’s not honest,” Rasanga told residents. “We had agreed that he would serve that term and then leave it for me. Now that he is still going, I also have the right to compete. I do not fear anybody. Let him come, and we meet.”
The remarks point to early tensions within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), where both men hold influence. While the party has yet to signal its direction for the 2027 elections, such declarations often mark the opening moves in longer political negotiations.
Rasanga, who served two terms as governor, framed his bid around experience and unfinished work. He said his time in office had given him insight into the gaps in oversight and public spending, areas he now wants to address from the Senate.
“It took me ten years to learn a few things,” he said. “I believe I can offer the kind of oversight that benefits Siaya and the country.”
He outlined plans to push for changes to procurement law, including increasing allocations for youth, women and persons with disabilities. He also spoke of tighter controls to ensure county funds are spent within Siaya, arguing that development resources too often drift beyond their intended reach.
Among the projects he pledged to revive is the proposed Barack Obama University, a long-discussed initiative that has yet to take shape.
For his part, Mr Oginga has kept his options open. In a recent television interview, he said he may seek the presidency if backed by his party, while leaving open the possibility of defending his Senate seat.
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