Theuri Eyes Comeback as Sections of Luo, Luhya, Kisii and Other Communities Signal Support

The former MP’s record of inclusivity could shape the 2027 race as discontent with Mwenje and ODM’s popularity comes into focus.

Former Embakasi West MP George Theuri could be gaining ground among sections of the Luo, Luhya, Kisii and other traditionally ODM-aligned communities in the constituency, with some voters reportedly considering backing him in the 2027 General Election over what they describe as disappointment with incumbent MP Mark Mwenje.

The voters claim they supported Mwenje in the last election mostly because of the late Raila Odinga's influence and their loyalty to ODM and Azimio. However, they now feel that the support they gave him has not been reciprocated.

Some accuse the MP of taking their votes for granted, arguing that he became less attentive to the very people who helped secure his election.

They have also raised concerns about what they see as unequal treatment in resource distribution and access to opportunities.

“Things like bursaries make it look as though only a section of one community in the constituency is benefiting, which is a very sad state of affairs. During Theuri’s time, bursaries were awarded without considering your second name. Mwenje should emulate leaders like the current Embakasi North MP, who is known for distributing bursaries fairly without appearing to favour certain communities over others.”

For these voters, the issue is not simply party loyalty but the kind of leadership they believe they received after the election.

Their growing interest in Theuri, who has indicated his intention to contest the seat on an ODM ticket, is largely being linked to his previous tenure as MP and what they describe as his willingness to work with residents regardless of their ethnic background or political affiliation.

Several voters reportedly recall that even when they did not vote for him, Theuri remained accessible and treated them fairly. They say this is the kind of leadership they want to reward at the ballot.

Some have even expressed their willingness to vote for him regardless of the outcome, saying their decision would be a way of appreciating how he treated them when he was in office.

If these sentiments translate into votes, they could present a significant challenge to Mwenje, particularly if the discontent extends beyond a small section of the electorate.

Theuri's record could be his biggest selling point

For Theuri, the emerging mood offers an opportunity to build a campaign around a message of inclusivity, fairness and service to all residents.

In a constituency as diverse as Embakasi West, the ability to reach voters beyond traditional ethnic and political loyalties can be an important electoral asset. Residents want leaders who can represent the entire constituency, not just the communities or political groups that supported them during elections.

Theuri's supporters believe his previous tenure gives him an advantage in this regard. They argue that his treatment of residents who voted against him demonstrated that leadership should not be reduced to political loyalty or ethnic considerations.

That argument could form a central part of his campaign as he seeks to return to Parliament.

Mwenje, on the other hand, faces the challenge of retaining voters who supported him in the last election while addressing the concerns being raised about his leadership. Whether these complaints will translate into a substantial shift in support remains to be seen.

The MP's response to the allegations will also be important in assessing the political situation in the constituency.

ODM factor could prove decisive

The party ticket is likely to be another major factor in the Embakasi West contest.

Recent opinion polls cited in political discussions have reportedly placed ODM ahead in the constituency, followed by DCP and UDA. If that trend is confirmed by credible constituency-level data, an ODM candidate could begin the race with a considerable advantage.

Theuri's intention to seek the ODM ticket could therefore prove significant. Beyond his personal support base, the party could provide him with an established network of supporters and a platform to reach voters who remain loyal to the Orange party.

However, party popularity alone will not guarantee victory. The candidate's appeal, campaign organisation, nominations and the ability to unite different voting blocs will all play a role.

The situation could become even more interesting if ODM and UDA agree to support a joint candidate in Embakasi West. Such an arrangement could alter the race considerably, although its impact would depend on the candidate chosen and whether supporters of both parties rally behind the decision.

For Theuri, securing the ODM ticket and consolidating support beyond the party's traditional base could be critical to his chances.

Linda Mwananchi's influence remains uncertain

The political influence of the Linda Mwananchi movement could also feature in the contest, although its impact in Embakasi West remains difficult to establish.

Some political observers believe sections of its support base overlap with DCP supporters, raising questions about whether a candidate associated with the movement would be able to build a strong independent constituency.

Without reliable local polling, however, it would be premature to predict how the movement will perform or how its supporters will vote in 2027.

What is clear is that the constituency's political landscape could be shaped by several competing forces, including party loyalty, individual candidates' records and the alliances formed ahead of the election.

A contest that could come down to trust

As the 2027 General Election approaches, Theuri's potential comeback bid is likely to centre on whether he can turn his reputation among sections of the electorate into a wider political movement.

The reported dissatisfaction among the majority of the voters presents him with an opportunity to reconnect with residents who believe his previous tenure offered a more inclusive approach to leadership.

For Mwenje, the challenge will be to defend his record and convince voters that he remains the right person to represent them.

The outcome is far from certain, but one issue is already emerging in the political conversation: voters who feel ignored after an election may be willing to reconsider their choices.

If Theuri succeeds in converting that sentiment into a broader coalition of support, Embakasi West could witness a competitive battle for the parliamentary seat in 2027.