Kisii Governor Simba Arati could face a difficult task defending his seat in the 2027 General Election, with some political observers arguing that issues of regional balance and power sharing may influence the outcome.

According to 2022 IEBC results, Arati received his highest number of votes from Bogetutu, where he garnered 58,128 votes. Bobasi followed with 56,834 votes, while Bomachoge gave him 51,167 votes. Bonchari contributed 31,701 votes and South Mugirango delivered 26,159 votes.

Supporters of regional balancing argue that the 2022 political arrangement left the former Gucha region with only the governor’s position, while the Senate seat, Woman Representative position and Deputy Governor slot went to leaders from the former Kisii Central region.

They point out that during the administration of former Governor James Ongwae, the county’s top leadership positions were shared equally between the two regions. Under that arrangement, Ongwae served as Governor, Prof. Sam Ongeri was Senator, Janet Ong’era was Woman Representative and Joash Maangi was Deputy Governor.

Critics of Arati’s alliance say communities in Gucha, particularly Bomachoge, which strongly supported his bid, feel they did not receive adequate representation in the county’s top leadership.

There are also claims that Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu is preparing a strong political team ahead of the 2027 elections. Reports indicate that the proposed alliance would seek to maintain regional balance by sharing key positions between Gucha and Kisii Central.

Under the reported arrangement, Machogu would run for Governor, Senator Richard Onyonka would defend the Senate seat, while former South Mugirango MP Omingo Magara would take the Deputy Governor position. The Woman Representative position would reportedly be allocated to a candidate from Bomachoge.

Political analysts say the support of the populous Bogetutu and Bomachoge regions could play a major role in determining who becomes the next Governor of Kisii County.

However, with more than a year remaining before the 2027 General Election, alliances and political calculations are still expected to change, meaning the race for Kisii’s top seat remains wide open.