John Koyi Waluke the leader of Luhya parliamentary caucus, has dismissed an Info track survey on Luhya political leadership that ranked Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya as the most popular politician in Western Kenya.

According to the survey, Natembeya topped the popularity index, followed by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi at 18 per cent, while National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula placed third with 14 per cent.

Speaking in Mihuu, Waluke rejected the findings, questioning the credibility of the poll and accusing Info track of engaging in extortion schemes. He described the survey as biased and misleading, insisting that it does not accurately reflect political realities within the Luhya community.

Despite the controversy, Governor Natembeya has continued to gain political journey in Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties, beyond by the growing influence of the Tawe Movement the slogan translated as “time for change.” However, the governor has consistently played down speculation about national ambitions.

In a recent interview with Citizen Radio, Natembeya maintained that his primary focus remains service delivery in Trans Nzoia. He stated that he intends to defend his gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election, unless he is nominated as a presidential candidate by a united opposition. Such a platform, would offer him an opportunity to address the plight of Kenyans grappling with poverty.

The 2027 race in Trans Nzoia is nonetheless shaping up to be fiercely contested. Natembeya is expected to face strong opposition from former Kiminini MP Chris Wamalwa and Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, both of whom are reportedly being positioned to take him on.

Meanwhile, Musalia Mudavadi’s journey as a Luhya political kingpin traces back to his endorsement during the historic Bukhungu Declaration, an event attended by several influential leaders, including COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli. Mudavadi’s leadership played a key role in steering the Luhya community back into government after years on the political sidelines.

After unsuccessful presidential bids during the Jubilee era and later under the CORD and NASA coalitions, Mudavadi’s eventual political realignment proved pivotal. It elevated Luhya leadership within the Kenya Kwanza administration, with Mudavadi appointed Prime Cabinet Secretary and Wetang’ula assuming the influential role of Speaker of the National Assembly.

The ongoing debate over Luhya political leadership underscores the evolving dynamics in Western Kenya as the 2027 elections draw closer. While opinion polls continue to stir controversy and resistance from established leaders, emerging political figures and grassroots movements are steadily reshaping the region’s political landscape.

As alliances shift and ambitions, the Luhya community remains a critical political bloc one whose choices are likely to have far-reaching implications for both regional and national politics in the years ahead