TV host declares bid for Westlands MP as Wanyonyi's eyes Bungoma seat
Politics
By
Kevin Tunoi
| Jul 23, 2025
The race to succeed Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi in the 2027 General Election is beginning to take shape following a declaration by Kenyan-Canadian media personality Lucy Jeffery.
Jeffery announced her bid for the parliamentary seat just days after Wanyonyi received widespread backing to run for Bungoma governor.
The television host with Canadian broadcaster Entrepreneur TV made her intentions clear in a statement posted on her social media platforms.
She cited her 18-year experience in Canada as a motivating factor, saying she plans to bring tested governance models to Kenya through the Westlands constituency.
"For 18 years, I have lived in Canada, a country where government, businesses, and communities work hand in hand to care for their people," she wrote. "I have seen what works, and I know these ideas can transform Kenya."
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Jeffery’s entry into the race signals a shift in Westlands politics, traditionally dominated by party-aligned career politicians.
Her announcement comes after the current Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi, a member of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), set his sights on the Bungoma governorship after receiving the endorsement of eight Members of Parliament from the county.
The TV host has not declared her party affiliation ahead of the 2027 polls.
She outlined plans to focus on four key demographics: children, women, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens.
Drawing comparisons to Canada's approach to elderly care, Jeffery proposed the establishment of retirement communities in Nairobi.
"Senior citizens, for example, live in safe, well-organized retirement communities where their health, safety, and comfort come first. Why can’t Kenya do the same?" she posed.
Jeffery added she would prioritise practical, results-oriented solutions.
"If there is someone with better solutions for our future, vote for them. But if you believe, as I do, that Kenya is ready for bold, tested ideas that deliver results, I ask you to stand with me."
Wonyonyi’s endorsement for the Bungoma seat was led by Sirisia MP and Western Parliamentary Caucus chairperson John Waluke and has been described as a major political realignment in Bungoma.
“We want Bungoma to be led by someone with a clean track record, someone who has shown the ability to serve diligently and transparently. Timothy Wanyonyi is that person,” Waluke said.
The MPs backing Wanyonyi include Jack Wamboka (Bumula), Martin Pepela (Webuye East), John Chikati (Tongaren), Dan Wanyama (Webuye West), John Makali (Kanduyi), Majimbo Kalasinga (Kabuchai), and Fred Kapondi (Mt Elgon).
They praised Wanyonyi’s focus on youth empowerment, education, and support for small businesses, calling him the most qualified candidate to succeed outgoing Governor Kenneth Lusaka in 2027.