Don throws hat into Kisii Senate race to challenge Richard Onyonka
A Kisii University lecturer has officially declared his bid to unseat incumbent Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, setting the stage for a closely watched political contest in Kisii County.
Dr Denis Masenge announced on Sunday during an interview, positioning himself as a reform-oriented candidate keen on ushering in a new leadership approach in the county.
The political science lecturer, known for his outspoken views on governance and youth empowerment, emphasized transparency, accountability, and inclusive development as the pillars of his campaign.
“My decision to vie is informed by the desire to offer transformative leadership that reflects the aspirations of our people,” he said. “Kisii County deserves a voice that is bold, progressive, and responsive.”
Masenge said his campaign will prioritize strengthening oversight and ensuring prudent use of public resources.
“We must restore public trust in leadership by making accountability non-negotiable. Every shilling allocated to Kisii must work for the people,” he added.
He also pledged to champion youth empowerment and inclusive governance, stressing the need for equitable distribution of resources across all wards.
“No part of Kisii should feel left behind. Development must be inclusive, balanced, and responsive to the real needs of our communities,” he said.
His entry sets up a competitive showdown with Onyonka, a seasoned politician known for his vocal presence in national politics.
Masenge will first have to secure the Jubilee Party ticket in the party primaries to advance to the general election.
“I am ready to engage the electorate and present my vision. I believe the people of Kisii are ready for a new conversation about leadership and development,” he said.
Onyonka has been active in national politics for years, earning a reputation as a strong voice on governance, accountability, and legislative oversight.
Before becoming senator, he served as Member of Parliament for Kitutu Chache South Constituency, where he built his political base through grassroots mobilization and advocacy on development issues.
In the Senate, he has remained an outspoken participant in debates on national policy, particularly on matters affecting counties, devolution, and public finance management.
Masenge’s profile
Dr Denis Masenge is a scholar and public governance expert from Nyakorere Village in Magenche Ward, Kenyenya Sub-County.
He began his education at Kerongorori Primary School before joining Nyangweta High School. In 2012, he enrolled at Kisii University, earning a Bachelor of Education (Arts) before pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Public Policy.
In 2022, he joined the Korea Development Institute School of Public Policy and Management for a postgraduate diploma in Public Policy Analysis, while simultaneously undertaking a PhD in Public Policy and Management at Kenyatta University, completing both in 2024 and 2025.
He currently serves as a full-time lecturer of Public Administration at Kisii University’s Department of Political Science.
Additionally, he is the Regional Coordinator of the International Public Policy Association and works as a policy analyst with KOICA Africa.