Former Gender Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa has sparked interest in the Kilifi County governor race for the 2027 election after her recent dismissal from President William Ruto’s cabinet.
Jumwa, who has held multiple government roles, revealed her intentions at a thanksgiving ceremony for Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, where she noted that she was there to “benchmark” for Kilifi’s development needs.
During the ceremony held on Sunday, November 10, in Homa Bay, Jumwa expressed admiration for Governor Wanga’s leadership style, calling her “one of the best-performing governors” in Kenya.
Jumwa emphasized her purpose in attending, explaining she was there to learn from Wanga’s achievements and successes, with hopes of applying similar strategies in Kilifi if she were to lead the county.
“Governor Wanga, you have made us proud. We are so happy for you,” she said, signaling her support and commitment to strengthening her leadership skills.
Jumwa also expressed gratitude toward ODM party leader Raila Odinga, who recently appointed Wanga as the new national chairperson of the ODM party.
She praised Raila’s decision to place a woman in such a prominent position, noting that it aligns with Kenya’s two-thirds gender rule, which aims to support women in leadership roles.
“Thank you, Raila, for trusting women in leadership. I believe in Wanga’s ability to lead ODM successfully,” Jumwa added.
Despite her attendance at the ODM-led event, Jumwa remains committed to her current political path.
When Homa Bay residents urged her to return to ODM, the party she left to join the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), Jumwa respectfully declined.
She used a metaphor, likening herself to a daughter who has left her father’s home to establish her own path.
"Raila is like a father to me, but I have gone to build my own home,” she responded, making it clear that her loyalty now lies elsewhere.
Jumwa’s visit to Homa Bay comes shortly after she was relieved of her duties by President Ruto amid a broader cabinet reshuffle.
The former CS’s move toward a potential run for Kilifi governor is seen by some as a natural step given her previous roles in public service and her long-standing connection with Kilifi residents.
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