By Valentine Omondi
Credited for turning around the image of Kisumu and making the city the cleanest city in Kenya and top three in East Africa, the City Manager, Michael Abala Wanga, has opted out of the race for the Gem parliamentary seat.
Abala, who was one of the front runners for the Gem parliamentary seat, had developed a network in the constituency, which could have handed him victory at the ODM nomination and eventually at the general election.
But on Sunday, emotional Abala broke the news of his decision to his shocked campaign team and through social media platforms.
The withdrawal ends months of speculation over his political ambitions in the Siaya constituency.
Wanga announced his decision in a statement on Sunday, September 6, 2026, saying he had made the move after extensive consultations with his boss, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, his family and close friends.
He cited his current work commitments and personal responsibilities as the main reasons behind his decision, describing the choice as difficult.
“For a long time, I have carried the aspirations, hopes, and dreams of the people of Gem close to my heart,” Wanga said, adding that he had hoped to present himself on the ballot and work with residents to build a stronger and more prosperous constituency.
The City Manager had previously positioned himself as a potential contender for the Gem seat, with his political activities and public engagement on constituency issues fuelling expectations that he would seek the parliamentary position in 2027.
From City Management to Gem Politics
Wanga’s potential candidature had added another dimension to what was expected to be a closely watched contest for the Gem seat.
His interest in the position became increasingly public as he engaged in matters affecting residents of the constituency and built his profile among local communities.
In July 2026, Wanga was reported to have declared interest in the Gem parliamentary seat while calling on ODM leaders, including incumbent MP Elisha Odhiambo, to address issues surrounding the Shanta Gold dispute in East Gem.
His community profile has also been strengthened through involvement in education initiatives supporting needy students in Gem, including the Gem Educational Empowerment programme.
His decision now leaves incumbent Elisha Odhiambo as the beneficiary of Wanga’s direct political support.
Backs Elisha and Ruto
In announcing his withdrawal, Wanga made it clear that stepping out of the race would not mean withdrawing from politics or public service.
He pledged to support Odhiambo in his continued service as Gem MP and also threw his weight behind President William Ruto’s bid for re-election in 2027.
“In the spirit of unity, stability, and putting the interests of our people and nation first, I will support the incumbent Member of Parliament, Hon. Elisha Odhiambo, in his continued service to the people of Gem. I will also support H.E. President William Samoei Ruto in his bid for re-election in 2027,” he said.
Wanga urged Gem residents to remain united and focused on development, particularly in empowering young people and women and strengthening local communities.
He maintained that his withdrawal should not be interpreted as an end to his relationship with the constituency.
“Though I will not be seeking your votes in 2027, I remain available to serve, support, and engage with the people of Gem in whatever way I can,” he said.
Wanga concluded by assuring residents that Gem remained home and that his commitment to the constituency remained unwavering.
