By Abiero Awuora
Kenya’s political landscape has been jolted by the surprise entry of Hon. Eliud Okech Owalo into the 2027 presidential race, a move that has ignited intense debate across political, academic and grassroots circles. Owalo’s decision to resign as Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency to seek the country’s top seat is already being described as a potential game changer in the road to State House.
What has particularly sharpened the intrigue is the fact that Owalo’s immediate former boss, President William Samoei Ruto, is also seeking a second term. While Owalo is well within his constitutional rights under Article 137(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, the timing and political implications of his bid have triggered questions: Is this an independent political gamble—or a calculated strategy that could reshape voting patterns, especially within the Luo community?
Contrary to claims that he is a political novice, Owalo brings with him deep roots in Kenya’s political theatre. He previously served as a key strategist in Raila Odinga’s 2013 presidential campaign, led the influential Friends of Raila (FORA) lobby group, and unsuccessfully vied for the Kibra parliamentary seat on the ODM ticket. His ability to mobilize at the grassroots level has long been acknowledged by both allies and rivals.
In a dramatic twist ahead of the 2022 General Election, Owalo emerged as a central figure in then-Deputy President Ruto’s campaign machinery—an alignment that stunned ODM supporters and signalled his readiness to cross traditional political divides.
Upon assuming power, President Ruto appointed Owalo as Cabinet Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, a portfolio he used to build a national profile. He spearheaded the rollout of Ajira Digital Labs in TVET institutions countrywide, equipping thousands of young Kenyans with digital and gig-economy skills. The initiative boosted youth employability and expanded Owalo’s appeal far beyond his native Siaya County.
On the home front in Asembo, he oversaw transformative projects including a modern market, renovation of public schools, upgraded computer laboratories and the establishment of a new police station—cementing his image as a results-driven leader.
Owalo’s candidature is bolstered by an impressive academic and professional résumé. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Business Studies (Kenyatta University) and an MBA in Human Resource Management (University of Nairobi), and is currently pursuing a PhD in Strategic Management. With over 21 years’ experience as an economist, management consultant and strategy expert, he has advised both public and private sector institutions through his firm, Eliud & Associates (E&A) Management Consultants.
These credentials, combined with his extensive national networks, place him among the most intellectually formidable contenders in the 2027 race.
Critics argue that Owalo lacks a solid ethnic voting bloc—often considered a prerequisite in Kenya’s ethnically charged politics. Yet supporters counter with a compelling alternative source of influence: religious capital.
Owalo is the grandson of Mzee Johanna Owalo, founder of the Nomiya Luo Church, one of Africa’s largest independent churches with an estimated 1.5 million followers. His late father, Archbishop Gideon Charles Owalo, led the church for years. This heritage gives Owalo significant moral authority and organisational reach, not only in Nyanza but nationally and within the diaspora.
Owalo’s entry has also unsettled traditional ODM strongholds, raising questions about how the party’s base will respond to one of its own charting an independent path. Equally notable is the growing influence of Interior PS Dr. Raymond Omollo, whose rising profile in the region adds another layer to the evolving Luo political equation post–Raila Odinga.
As Kenya inches closer to the August 2027 General Election, Owalo’s every move will be scrutinised. Whether his bid fragments votes, redefines alliances or positions him as a kingmaker—or king—remains to be seen.
One thing, however, is certain: Eliud Owalo’s presidential bid has injected new energy, uncertainty and strategic depth into Kenya’s political contest, ensuring that the road to 2027 will be anything but predictable.
Dr. Abiero Awuora is a Strategy Expert and Public Policy Analyst.
Email: info@edunetconsultants.com
