By Lameck Baraza
The Friends of Eliud Owalo Siaya Chapter have declared their commitment to rally behind residents in support of the former Cabinet Secretaries’ presidential bid, positioning him as a formidable challenger to president William Ruto in the 2027 elections.
Speaking in Siaya town on Tuesday, group leader Phelomon Wachara praised Owalo’s track-record, describing him as a leader who has consistently demonstrated competence and integrity.
Wachara noted Owalo’s tenure as Cabinet Secretary for ICT, where he was ranked among the most effective ministers, before moving to the deputy chief of staff position, in charge of delivery, where he ensured government projects were executed with precision and accountability.
The group mentioned that Owalo’s presidency would be transformative for the western region, particularly through the revitalisation of Lake Victoria.
They argued that the lake, a natural economic powerhouse, has remained underutilised due to poor governance. “Under Owalo’s leadership, we envision Lake Victoria becoming a driver of fishing, transport, and tourism, creating jobs and boosting regional prosperity,” Wachara.
In line with cultural tradition, Wachara reminded residents that any leader must first seek blessings from their home community, stating that Owalo has embraced this principle by mobilising his kinsmen and women to champion his bid, ensuring that his campaign is rooted in local legitimacy.
Susan Goro, representing women’s voices, pledged to spread Owalo’s message across Siaya and beyond.
She emphasised that with no other presidential candidate emerging from Nyanza, Owalo stands as the region’s beacon of hope.
Ogoro added that women, renowned for their devotion and resilience in politics, have embraced Owalo’s vision wholeheartedly, and will not allow obstacles to derail their mission.
Pauline Precious echoed these sentiments, commending Owalo for empowering more than 26 women groups in Siaya.
She recalled that during his tenure as ICT minister, Owalo opened doors for youth employment by establishing ICT hubs, enabling young people to secure online jobs globally and integrate into the digital economy.
The chapter concluded by affirming that Owalo’s candidacy is not merely about political ambition but about transformative leadership, regional pride, and unlocking untapped economic potential, urging Siaya residents to unite behind him as a son of the soil, who has consistently delivered results and now seeks to elevate the entire nation.