By Reuben Olita, Busia
A Nakuru-based lawyer, Deogratius Obella, has officially thrown his hat into the ring to succeed Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah in the 2027 General Election.
Senator Omtatah, currently serving his first term, recently declared his intention to contest the presidency in 2027, paving the way for a heated contest to fill the Senate seat.
Speaking over the weekend during the burial of Pamela Isale Oyese, 65, at St Pius Ikapolok Primary and Comprehensive School on Saturday, Advocate Obella announced his ambitions and pledged to consult voters across the county before unveiling a detailed plan to elevate service delivery and strengthen oversight.
Obella, who also serves as the personal assistant to Teso North MP Oku Kaunya, expressed confidence in his capacity to succeed Omtatah.
“I was inspired by Fr. Michael Wanyonyi’s sermon that men at 45 should not focus on building storeyed houses but on taking care of their families,” said Obella. “But I want to build a symbolic storeyed building for Busians — a legacy of integrity, leadership, and public service.”
He added, “Though I am not yet 45, I am determined to work with the people of Busia to build a county free from corruption and social ills. I seek your blessings as I offer myself to become the third senator of Busia after Amos Wako and Okiya Omtatah.”
Obella is expected to face strong competition, including Busia County Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Sylvester Abung’u and other aspirants eyeing the coveted seat.
Elsewhere at the same event, former Malaba North MCA Ichasi Imwene declared his intention to challenge MP Oku Kaunya for the Teso North parliamentary seat, stressing that votes must be earned through genuine service and not assumed.
Malaba North MCA hopeful Patrick Ekiring also announced his plans to unseat incumbent Hon. Patrick Omanyala, urging residents to pray for him and support his bid.
