The political temperature is slowly rising in Siaya Township Ward, where at least four contenders have set their sights on the seat ahead of the 2027 general election.
The ward, which covers Siaya town the county’s administrative and political centre is expected to witness a highly competitive race featuring Hon. Obiero Otare, Hon. Rose Rabinya, Peter Owino Goiya, and Nicholas Ofuwa.
Otare Seeks to Extend Long Reign
Incumbent MCA Obiero Otare is expected to defend his seat after years of service in Siaya’s local leadership.
He previously served as councillor and mayor before joining the County Assembly and is currently serving his third term.
Otare is a close ally of Governor James Orengo, a relationship that positions him within the county’s ruling camp. His supporters cite his experience and deep understanding of local issues, while critics argue that Siaya Township needs new leadership after years under the same hand.
Rabinya Brings County Experience to the Ground
Hon. Rose Rabinya, the Deputy Majority Leader in the Siaya County Assembly and a nominated MCA, is also eyeing the ward seat.
She is a known ally of Alego Usonga MP Sam Atandi, and her bid is viewed as part of efforts to expand his political influence within Siaya town.
Rabinya has built her reputation on youth and women empowerment programs, and insiders say she is keen to translate her county-level experience into direct representation at the ward level.
Peter Owini Goiya
Goiya Returns for Another Attempt
Businessman Peter Owino Goiya, who narrowly lost to Otare in 2022, is making another attempt at the seat.
He has previously contested several times and remains a popular figure among traders, youth, and residents around the township.
Goiya is associated with Ugenya MP David Ochieng, the leader of the MDG Party, who has announced his bid for Siaya Governor in 2027. Political watchers believe Goiya’s campaign could ride on Ochieng’s countywide strategy to expand MDG’s influence.
Ofuwa Makes His Debut
The newest entrant, Nicholas Ofuwa, chairs the Siaya Pick-up Association and is running for elective office for the first time.
He draws his support from transport operators, market traders, and informal business owners within the township.
Ofuwa has no known political affiliation, a factor that some voters say gives him a clean slate. His independence could appeal to voters seeking a break from entrenched political loyalties.
Proxy Battle for Siaya’s Future
Political analysts say the Township Ward contest mirrors the emerging power struggle in Siaya County.
Otare is aligned with Governor James Orengo, Rabinya with MP Sam Atandi, Goiya with MP David Ochieng, while Ofuwa remains unaffiliated.
The race is therefore expected to double as a proxy contest between major political camps as the county heads toward a heated 2027 election.
With Siaya Township being the county’s urban hub and political heartbeat, the outcome of this ward race is likely to carry influence beyond the local assembly shaping alliances and signalling which leaders command real grassroots support across the county.
Austine Ogollah is a correspondent and political affairs writer based in Siaya County.
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