Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the county’s 2027 gubernatorial race, according to a new opinion poll released on May 5.
The survey indicates that Wanga enjoys strong support among voters, placing her well ahead of potential challengers as political alignments begin to take shape.
The poll, conducted by Swiss Poll International, shows Wanga commanding 58.7% of voter preference if elections were held today.
The poll, conducted by Swiss Poll International, shows Wanga commanding 58.7% of voter preference if elections were held today.
Her closest competitor, former Nairobi governor Evans Kidero, trails significantly with 15.3%. Former Homa Bay deputy governor Oyugi Magwanga follows closely behind Kidero at 15.1%, setting up a tight contest for second place.
Other candidates appear to have minimal support at this stage. Hesbon Omollo, brother to Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, garnered 2.6% in the poll.
Other candidates appear to have minimal support at this stage. Hesbon Omollo, brother to Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, garnered 2.6% in the poll.
Meanwhile, 8.3% of respondents indicated they remain undecided, suggesting there is still room for shifts in voter sentiment as the election approaches.
According to the research firm, Wanga’s strong showing reflects solid backing from her political base and satisfaction with her leadership among a significant portion of the electorate.
According to the research firm, Wanga’s strong showing reflects solid backing from her political base and satisfaction with her leadership among a significant portion of the electorate.
The survey sampled 5,500 respondents and reported a margin of error of plus or minus 3% at a 95% confidence level.
Despite her commanding lead, political observers note that the race is far from settled. The presence of a notable undecided bloc and the possibility of new alliances or campaign strategies could still influence the final outcome.
Despite her commanding lead, political observers note that the race is far from settled. The presence of a notable undecided bloc and the possibility of new alliances or campaign strategies could still influence the final outcome.
Additionally, competition for the second spot remains intense, with Kidero and Magwanga nearly tied.
Wanga, who also serves as chairperson of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), is not only focused on county politics.
Wanga, who also serves as chairperson of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), is not only focused on county politics.
Reports suggest she could be considering a larger national role, including potential negotiations tied to the deputy president position in broader political discussions involving President William Ruto’s allies.