By Reuben Olita
Former Busia County Deputy Governor (2013–2017) Kizito Wangalwa’s public re-emergence is being viewed as an early signal in Busia County’s 2027 succession politics amid growing concern over divisions and stalled development.
Breaking his silence after years away from frontline politics, Wangalwa said the situation in the county was “not auguring well,” suggesting the need for experienced leadership to help steady the political landscape.
“I went on leave for a few years, but things are not going well in the county. We can’t keep people fighting,” Wangalwa said.
Without declaring a specific seat, the former deputy governor hinted at aligning himself with what he termed a “winning team,” using a football analogy to stress the importance of unity and strategy in leadership.
“There is an urge to go back and help the winning team, just like top English Premier League clubs such as Chelsea and Arsenal,” he said.
Political observers interpret the remarks as positioning ahead of the 2027 general election, when Busia County’s top seat and other senior offices are expected to attract intense competition.
Wangalwa said his priority would be restoring unity and reclaiming the county’s stature.
“We cannot fail to see the difference. I must come back and see the pride of Busia blossoming again,” he added.
He also defended his record in office, saying he served diligently during his 2013–2017 tenure in the County Government of Busia, a period he said laid a foundation for stability and service delivery.
Wangalwa made the remarks on Friday during the burial service of Papa Mark Osilli Adungo at Ngelechom Comprehensive School grounds.
Kizito, is currently serving as Director of Committees and Programmes at the Council of Governors (CoG). In that role, he coordinates sector committees and supports policy, legal and administrative initiatives aimed at strengthening devolution and advancing county interests.
Former Nambale MP and 2027 Busia gubernatorial aspirant Sakwa Bunyasi remained non-committal on whether he will contest again in the next general election, choosing instead to reflect on his close relationship with the late Papa Mark Osilli.
Bunyasi said he first met Osilli in 2019 at the onset of his gubernatorial campaign and paid him two courtesy visits after the elections, describing him as an erudite and insightful elder.
On his part, Daniel Mogoria, a 2017 Busia MP aspirant and 2022 Gubernatorial contestant, said he has not yet resumed active political engagements.
Mogoria appealed for political tolerance, urging leaders and supporters to allow aspirants to seek votes freely across the county without intimidation.
