The race to succeed the Siaya County Woman Representative has officially exploded into life—and it took an unexpected twist on a talkshow.
Appearing on Siaya’s premier political talk show HARD TALK last night, a new contender was unveiled, instantly injecting fresh energy into what had seemed a predictable contest. Janet Onyango Roy, a youthful scholar with international exposure, announced her entry into the race—eschewing political pomp for precision, policy and purpose.
Her declaration reshapes a contest already featuring popular names such as Susan Okwiri and Dorothy Awino Oinga (among others), both serving Members of the County Assembly with established grassroots networks. But while her rivals arrive with political machinery and entrenched constituencies, Janet steps in as a political outsider—unencumbered, untainted and unapologetically intellectual.
Unlike the theatrics often associated with Kenyan politics, Janet’s HARD TALK appearance was defined by clarity and composure. She demonstrated a rare, detailed grasp of the constitutional mandate of a Woman Representative, articulating a people-first agenda anchored on widows, youth, persons with disabilities and other marginalized groups.
Observers were quick to note her age advantage—the youngest contender so far—and the generational appeal it brings at a time when youth unemployment and exclusion remain pressing challenges in Siaya.
Currently a PhD student in China, Janet brings with her global exposure that few local aspirants can match. She serves as the coordinator of Kenyan students in China, playing a central role in student welfare, networking and even facilitating travel and linkages between Kenya and the Far East—an experience that positions her uniquely for international partnerships and development diplomacy.
Despite her time abroad, Janet is no stranger to the ground back home. In Siaya, she is widely known for her hands-on engagement with youth and widows through Uranga Moyie CBO, and for organizing a popular cross-county football tournament that has become a platform for youth talent, mentorship and cohesion.
It is this blend of grassroots activism and global perspective that has begun to set her apart.
Following the talkshow, a cross-section of political, religious and academic leaders praised her command of issues and refreshing delivery. Yet, as is often the case in Siaya politics, encouragement came with candid counsel.
Community leaders urged Janet to quickly immerse herself in the hard realities on the ground—particularly insecurity driven by high rates of unemployment among youth and the perennial water crisis linked to SIBOWASCO, the county water utility frequently accused by residents of charging for water that never flows.
“Tell her to wake up to the reality of sangwenyas,” one religious leader remarked pointedly. “Here at home, things are seriously bad. Systems have been created to make the youth perpetual beggars and the only economic activity vibrant right now is online stipends. We need water in our homes. The agency is supplying ‘pure air’. Social interventions must come before theories and book work.”
Renowned academic Dr. Maurice Abiero Awuora, a resident of Bar-Kowino in Bondo, was unequivocal in his endorsement—tempered with realism.
“I listened to her. She is qualified. Her education credentials are unquestionable. She has put unmatched effort into changing lives through the partnerships she outlined. I truly wish her well. But she must also prepare for the harsh realities of compromised nominations that we have sadly witnessed before.”
As the field widens, Janet Onyango Roy’s entry presents voters with a stark choice: career politicians versus a technocratic reformer, established power bases versus a clean slate.
“Let’s give her a chance and see what she can do for our people,” another community leader urged. “There are a few good examples of women reps doing commendable socio-economic work—though many are just slaying.”
For now, one thing is clear: Siaya’s Woman Representative race is no longer business as usual. With Janet Onyango Roy in the mix, the conversation has shifted—from glamour to governance, from slogans to solutions.
As Siaya takes notice, a bold message echoes across the county: fresh ideas may yet find fertile ground
Welcome to Siaya politics, Janet.
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