Before the August 8 election, little was known about Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili. But nine months later, the unspoken but smart pharmacist is mastering the game of politics and going forward, he might be a stumbling block in Governor Anyang Nyong'o succession. Where will it end?
Senator Fred Outa has declared himself as Prof. Nyong'o's "annointed successor" and is banking on the incumbent's support to springboard his political ambitions. And with four years remaining to the next election, Outa is already combing through the expansive county to popularize his bid. Though he has faced criticism, the vocal and sometimes controversial Outa is not moved.
But what if Nyong'o abandons him in favour of Dr. Owili, his deputy? So far, the duo is enjoying the best working relationship amongst all 47 Governors and deputies in the country. And with the good Prof. keen to leave someone who will pick up from where he left, he may just support his deputy to take over from him.
At 73 years now, Nyong'o will be 77 in 2022. Though he is yet to clarify whether he will hang his political boots afyrt the end of his current term, it is unlikely that he will seek fresh mandate come the next election. So what becomes of Dr. Owili, an "outsider" in Kisumu politics having joined the game late? And what of Outa? Will he mount a serious campaign without Nyongo's support to clinch the coveted seat? Well, the Pharmacist might just crash political dreams in Kisumu. But at what cost?