This archive report was first published on 5 May 2020.
As the 2022 polls draw near, the political future of Devolution cabinet secretary Eugene Wamalwa remains uncertain. With a background in law and a charismatic personality, Wamalwa has been a prominent figure in Kenya's political scene for years.
Wamalwa's decision to contest the Trans-Nzoia gubernatorial seat or play a bigger role at the national level will be crucial in determining his political relevance. Pundits believe that he needs to engage in competitive politics to remain relevant, having missed out on opportunities in 2013 and 2017.
Wamalwa's past experiences have shown that he has the potential to make a significant impact in politics. He was last in parliament between 2007 and 2013 and briefly served as a Constitutional Affairs minister under the Kibaki regime. However, he has disappointed his supporters on two occasions when he opted out of contesting the Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat in 2013 and 2017, despite being a clear favourite to win.
Wamalwa's interest in the Nairobi gubernatorial seat in 2017 was short-lived, and he was later appointed as a cabinet secretary. His political destiny is now in his hands, and how he navigates his next move will determine whether his political career will flourish or fade.
Wamalwa's allies have formed the Democratic Action Party, which is seen as his next political vehicle. The party's formation is a significant development in Wamalwa's political career, and it remains to be seen how it will impact his future prospects.
Wamalwa's rise to prominence in politics can be attributed to his natural charisma and his family background. He is a brother to the late vice president Wamalwa Kijana and son of the late independence time senator William Wamalwa. A lawyer by profession, Wamalwa first entered politics in 2003 after the demise of his brother but lost to David Nakitare in the subsequent by-election.
Wamalwa later made a comeback and trounced Nakitare with a landslide margin during the 2007 general election. He was also involved in a rivalry with Moses Wetang'ula for party leadership in Ford Kenya, which led to him decamping and becoming the leader of New Ford Kenya.
Wamalwa's dalliance with the ruling party has not been without its challenges. He has remained close to Uhuru Kenyatta, but his relationship with Deputy President William Ruto has been strained. Wamalwa has been chumming with ODM leader Raila Odinga and Cotu secretary general Francis Atwoli, who share a similar agenda.
As the Uhuru succession unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Wamalwa will be a beneficiary or chart out his own political destiny. Those close to him want him to be in the next government, but it is a million-dollar question on how he will navigate and get there.
Wamalwa's chances of being part of the Building Bridges Initiative to restructure governance and allow political posts are still uncertain. However, insiders say that he is being considered in the Uhuru-Raila power deal to bring on board the populous Bukusu vote bloc.
Senate speaker Kenneth Lusaka's presence in the current Jubilee government format may complicate matters for Wamalwa. Nevertheless, Wamalwa's political future remains uncertain, and only time will tell how he will navigate the complex web of Kenyan politics.
