Several elected and nominated MPs and Members of County Assemblies from Busia, Bungoma, Vihiga and Kakamega counties have endorsed Governor Wycliffe Oparanya's intentions to vie for presidency in 2022.
The leaders cited the Kakamega governor's development record, experience, maturity, and philosophy of unity of purpose.
They were speaking on Sunday at a fundraiser for Ekwanda ACK Church building project in Vihiga Sub County. Their sentiments were echoed by area Governor Wilbur Ottichilo.
"His performance puts him ahead of the pack," Otichillo who is ANC party leader Musalia Mudavadi's close ally said.
Otichillo also commended the ODM governor for hosting a successful Devolution Conference and his leadership at the helm of the newly established Lake Region Economic Bloc.
On constitutional amendments, Governor Ottichilo called for amendments to expand the leadership structure at national level.
"If you unsuccessfully vie for presidency you should play a leadership role in opposition rather than be consigned to oblivion as is the case today," he said.
Also present were Women Representative Elsie Muhanda (Kakamega), Godfrey Osotsi (Nominated MP), Justus Kizito Mugali (Shinyalu MP), Chris Omulele (Luanda MP), and the MCAs.
MPs Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Bernard Shinali (Ikolomani) sent apologies.