Bungoma County has been thrust into political uncertainty after Governor Kenneth Lusaka dismissed all members of the County Executive Committee (CECs), alongside the County Attorney and County Secretary, in a sweeping reorganization of his administration.
The drastic move comes just as Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) were reportedly preparing to table an impeachment motion targeting key county officials, signaling deepening cracks within the county leadership.
A Preemptive Political Strike
In a press release issued from the Governor’s office, Lusaka stated that the decision was made in line with his constitutional mandate to ensure effective governance and improved service delivery. The statement emphasized that the reorganization was undertaken “in good faith and in the broader public interest.”
However, political observers view the move as a strategic attempt to outmaneuver the County Assembly and reassert control over the county government before the impeachment process could gain momentum.
The dismissal affects the entire top administrative structure of Bungoma County, leaving a temporary leadership vacuum as the Governor prepares to make interim appointments.
Wetang’ula Factor and Party Politics
The unfolding situation is further complicated by the growing political rivalry between Lusaka and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula.
Wetang’ula, the leader of the Ford-Kenya party, is said to be asserting his influence in Bungoma following Lusaka’s recent political shift. The Governor previously parted ways with Ford-Kenya and aligned himself with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), a party closely associated with President William Ruto.
This political realignment has reshaped alliances in Western Kenya, with tensions spilling over into county governance structures.
Role in UDA and 2027 Politics
In January 2026, Lusaka was appointed to lead the UDA Western Region coordination team, a key role aimed at strengthening grassroots support for President Ruto’s anticipated 2027 re-election bid. He is deputized by Ayub Savula, further cementing his position within the ruling party’s regional strategy.
Analysts believe Lusaka’s growing national political profile may have intensified local resistance, particularly among leaders aligned with rival political factions.
Service Delivery Concerns
Despite the political upheaval, Lusaka has assured residents that essential services will not be disrupted. The county government indicated that administrative measures have been put in place to ensure continuity as new appointments are finalized.
“Further communication regarding interim arrangements and subsequent appointments will be made in due course, in accordance with the law,” the statement noted.
What Next for Bungoma?
The mass dismissal sets the stage for a potentially volatile standoff between the executive and the county assembly. With impeachment threats looming and political rivalries deepening, Bungoma County now faces a critical test of governance stability.
As residents await new appointments, the focus remains on whether the reorganization will restore efficiency—or further entrench political divisions in one of Western Kenya’s key counties.
