The Jubilee Party leadership in Nyaribari Masaba threw its weight behind former Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, endorsing him as the party’s preferred candidate for the Kisii gubernatorial race in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The announcement was made during a delegates’ meeting at Nyanturago Friday, where local party officials praised Machogu’s public service record and described him as the most prepared candidate to steer the county toward sustainable development.
It would be Machogu’s second attempt at the Kisii governorship slot after he was floored by incumbent Kisii Governor Simba Arati in the 2022 polls.
He is currently said to be holding strategy meetings at his residence ahead of the polls.
On Friday Speaking Nyaribari Masaba Jubilee Party Secretary General Joash Orora urged the residents to register as party members to bolster support for Machogu’s bid and Dr Fred Matiangi who is gunning for presidency.
The two endorsements follow months of consultations with grassroots members and background checks on the aspirants’ past records, Orora said.
“We listened to our people, and the message is clear,” he said.
“Machogu has the experience, the credibility, and the vision our county needs. Jubilee will stand behind him.”
Branch party chair Samson Nyagaka, who is also former Nyamasibi Member of County Assembly expressed confidence that the Jubilee Party is on course for a major political comeback under the leadership of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
Nyagaka said Matiang’i’s entry into active politics had revitalized the party’s grassroots networks and inspired renewed support across the region.
“People have been waiting for a leader who can unite and restore trust in our political institutions,” Nyagaka said.
“Under Dr. Matiang’i, Jubilee is reorganizing and reconnecting with the people. We are poised for victory.”
He praised Matiang’i’s record in public service, describing him as “a disciplined and results-oriented leader whose influence is already being felt on the ground.”
Nyaribari Masaba parliamentary hopeful Ben Obino called for more aspirants to join the party.
He said the party shall hold a free and credible nominations.
“Our constituency has immense potential, and with unity and accountable leadership, we can transform it. My focus will be on restoring efficiency in services.”
Local elders and youth representatives said Kisii County was ripe for change.
They voiced their support for Machogu saying his administrative skills would help restore good governance at the devolved unit.
Political analyst Eric Onsongo says the endorsement could reshape the race in Kisii, which is expected to attract several high-profile contenders.
Jubilee party officials indicated they would soon launch a countywide mobilization drive to consolidate support ahead of the party primaries.
As the election season gains momentum, Machogu’s camp is expected to intensify grassroots engagement, with rallies planned across all nine constituencies of the county.
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