Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula has declared his intention to run for the county's gubernatorial seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket. He made the announcement at Kakamega Sports Club today, stating he has started the process of leaving DAP-Kenya and registering as a UDA aspirant. The move could complicate coalition politics in Kakamega.
Ayub Savula, Kakamega's deputy governor since 2022, spoke at the Kakamega Sports Club on Monday, February 2, 2026, confirming his plan to challenge incumbent Governor Fernandes Barasa of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Savula stated he has initiated the formal process to leave DAP-Kenya and has registered as a UDA aspirant for the position. He plans to attend a UDA aspirants' meeting in Nairobi on Wednesday to solidify his alignment with President William Ruto's party.
"The process to officially move from DAP has started. I know ODM and UDA will work together and I want to say I will not align with opposition. I will personally stand with my president," Savula said.
Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana, speaking at the same event, dismissed claims of zoning or restricted nominations within UDA, emphasizing that the party would allow all aspirants to compete freely for elective seats ahead of the 2027 elections. Savula's declaration arrives amid national-level cooperation between UDA and ODM in the government, but it risks creating tensions at the county level if the parties field separate candidates.
Kakamega County, a traditional ODM stronghold in Western Kenya, may witness UDA's push to expand its influence in the region. Savula, with his history of leadership roles in local and national politics, could emerge as a strong contender. The defection may reshape alliances within DAP-Kenya and the local political scene. Earlier this year, there were suggestions Savula might target the gubernatorial race in 2032, but he has now advanced his timeline to 2027.
