Wandayi: From now onwards, I will be actively involved in Siaya politics

Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi, accompanied by Siaya leaders, speaking to the media at his home in Ugunja on May 30, 2026/ Faith Matete 

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has signalled his intention to take a more active role in Siaya County politics, saying that local leaders should ensure the county does not make leadership mistakes in future elections.

Speaking after a meeting with members of the Siaya County Assembly and other local leaders at his home on Saturday, Wandayi said he would no longer stay on the sidelines as political realignments begin to take shape in the county.

"A number of people have been asking why I am quiet. I want to tell you that from now onwards, you will be seeing me actively involved in the affairs of this county, not just development matters but also in the political affairs of this county," he said.

The Cabinet Secretary's remarks are likely to generate political speculation in Siaya ahead of the 2027 General Election, where Governor James Orengo will be completing his second and final term in office.

Without mentioning names, Wandayi commented on choices that could affect the county's development agenda, saying leaders had a responsibility to guide residents toward making informed decisions.

"The position of governor is a very important position in the development of a county. As leaders gathered here today, we have resolved that we shall not make a mistake. I will personally not allow myself to be part of a situation where we make another mistake in this county," he said.

The meeting brought together a majority of Siaya MCAs led by County Assembly Speaker George Okode and focused on both political and development issues affecting the county.

Wandayi responded to suggestions of divisions among leaders, insisting that the county's political leadership remained united despite differing views.

"We have agreed that as the leadership of Siaya County, we are going to move forward as one united people. We shall work together as members of one party and as part of the broad-based government," he said.

The leaders also used the meeting to reaffirm their support for the broad-based political arrangement between President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.

Speaker Okode said Siaya leaders were firmly behind the cooperation framework and urged residents to maintain peace and support dialogue-driven politics.

He further revealed that county leaders had agreed to support the proposed nuclear power plant project planned for Siaya, describing it as a transformative investment that could unlock jobs, infrastructure development and economic growth.

The project, estimated to cost Sh500 billion, has generated debate in parts of the county, with supporters citing its economic benefits while critics have raised concerns over safety and environmental impact.

Several MCAs pledged to spearhead civic education campaigns to help residents understand the project and make informed decisions based on scientific facts.

Majority Leader Martin Otieno said the region should now focus on securing development opportunities after decades of championing democratic reforms.

He argued that the broad-based arrangement had opened new opportunities for Nyanza and that leaders should leverage the partnership to attract more projects to the region.

Women leaders attending the meeting also called for greater inclusion in decision-making processes, saying women should have a seat at the table as discussions on the county's political future gather momentum.

The meeting comes just a day before ODM leaders and supporters converge in Kisumu for the highly anticipated "Wabiro Kisumu" rally, which is expected to chart the party's political direction following the broad-based agreement.