Ford-Kenya has declared it will not support Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, brother to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, in the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race. Wanyonyi, an ODM member, recently announced his intention to contest the seat, but the party insists he is not one of their members.
The Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (Ford-Kenya) has stated it has no intention of backing Tim Wanyonyi in the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial race. Wanyonyi, elected as Westlands MP in 2022 on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket, is the brother of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, who leads Ford-Kenya—a party with significant influence in Bungoma, where Wanyonyi was born in Mukwheya.
Party members argue that Wanyonyi lacks the authority to claim he will not run under their banner, as he is not a member and has never engaged in party activities or reforms. Chairman John Chikati confirmed the party is selecting its own candidate for the Bungoma seat, ruling out Wanyonyi.
"We are so sick that he says that he will not vie using a Ford-Kenya rocket as if he is a member of the Ford. The party will have its own candidate who will face nomination and from whom we are going to select to be our Governor," Chikati said.
Webuye East MP Martin Pepela added: "My friend Tim has shown that he is not the person we thought he was, and that is why we are telling him that he has crossed the red line since you have clearly shown that you are not a friend of ours, and moving forward, we are going to handle you such."
This follows Wanyonyi's June announcement that he is no longer interested in the Nairobi governorship and plans to contest in Bungoma. In a July 7 interview, he stated: "As Tim Wanyonyi, I’m ready to go and serve the people of Bungoma now. The stance is that in the next general elections, I will be vying for the Bungoma Gubernatorial seat."
His declaration surprised many, given his prior interest in Nairobi despite past unsuccessful bids. He recalled launching a campaign there, receiving endorsements from pastors and residents, but complications prevented him from appearing on the ballot.