Is John Mbadi The Glowing Star Of Luo Nyanza's Political Landscape?

• John Mbadi’s political rise dates back to when he was named the ODM national chairman in 2014
• He was at the helm of the Orange party for over a decade before he resigned to take up the Cabinet appointment
• With talk of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga exiting politics, local political observers told TUKO.co.ke that Mbadi stands a good chance to take over

A new political dawn seems to be taking shape in Luo Nyanza, and John Mbadi emerges as a central figure.

The National Treasury Cabinet Secretary’s political star has been shining since the passing of the late Gerald Otieno Kajwang in 2014.

It was a moment that marked the beginning of Mbadi’s ascent to political prominence. Being the first Luo to hold the powerful position of Treasury Cabinet Secretary since Kenya's independence, the former ODM national chairman seems poised to be a key figure to watch in the region’s politics.

Mbadi is now a seasoned politician, but his star started to shine when he was named the ODM national chairman to replace the late Otieno Kajwang.

He held the position for over a decade and only resigned to take up the Cabinet post.

Can John Mbad be the Luo Nyanza kingpin?

Political observers argue that Mbadi is now in a pole position to be the next regional kingpin.

“A lot of factors favor him. He is currently the senior-most politician in government from Nyanza and only second to Musalia Mudavadi in the lager Western region," political observer Erick Nyakie told TUKO.co.ke.

"Mbadi enjoys a massive grassroots support, something that recently played out when the head of state visited his Suba South backyard where over 20,000 people turned up for his Magunga thanks giving ceremony," Nyakie added.

His closeness to the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is another factor that might play to his advantage.

Who can challenge John Mbadi in battle for Luo Nyanza control?

While many factors might favour him going forward, a number of current leaders might threaten his bid to inherit Raila’s bastion – Governor Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay) and Kisumu’s Prof Peter Anyang Nyong’o.

Both Wanga and Nyong’o are allies of the ODM leader.

The Homa Bay County boss was recently named the ODM national chairperson to take over from Mbadi.

Wanga’s political star has also been rising, and her performance as the first female governor in Luo Nyanza might benefit her.

She is also close to President William Ruto, who is now a close ally of Raila.

"The fact that Wanga was the first governor who hosted president Ruto and with the recent embrace of the president in the region, she is making good moves for the future and might surprise many with her ambition for 2032," political observer Jerim Ouko told TUKO.co.ke.

Nyong’o’s influence can also not be wished away. Raila’s decision to allow him to chair a key ODM organ's meeting when away also shows how much trust and respect he commands from the former Prime Minister.

Will Raila form an alliance with Ruto?

Previously, TUKO.co.ke reported that Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi declared that the Nyanza region will always be included in government affairs.

During a thanksgiving service at his home in Ugunja on Friday, August 16, Wandayi assured his community that they would never be excluded from the government again.

The CS also praised President William Ruto's broad government, stating that it reflects the diversity of the entire country.

Proofreading by Otukho Jackson, a multimedia journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke

Kenyan Man Makes Unique 3-Wheeled Car, Says It Costs Ksh 450K
Four Chelsea Players Omitted From Manchester City Clash Amid Transfer Rows
2NK DT Sacco Board Member Dies Hours After Participating In Special General Meeting

Collage of John Mbadi (left) and the CS with President William Ruto (right).

Don’t chest thump, Mbadi warns ODM candidates in Luo Nyanza | Nation

Ida Odinga endorses John Mbadi to succeed Raila as Luo Nyanza kingpin