The 47 Sitting Governors - profiles

MOMBASA COUNTY

ALI HASSAN JOHO

Born in Mombasa in 1976. Joho is graduate of University of Nairobi’s with a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) option.

He is affiliated to Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) a party in the National Super Alliance (NASA). He will be facing Hassan Omar (wiper), Suleiman Shahbal (Jubilee) and Hezron Awiti (VDM) in August polls. He is married to Madina Joho with four children.

2013 election results

Ali Hassan Joho - 132,583 - ODM

Suleiman Said Saleh Shahbal - 94,905 – Wiper.

KWALE COUNTY

SALIM MKALA MVURYA

Born in Mwatate in 1970. Mr Mvurya is an alumni of Egerton University as he studied a Bachelors degree in Agri-Business Management (1996). He holds a masters degree in Participation, Power and Social Change from the Institute of Development Studies, in England, UK.

He is affiliated to Jubilee Party after decamping from ODM, then a member of CORD. He will be facing Chirau Ali Mwakwere (Wiper) in August polls

2013 election results

Salim Mkala Mvurya - 63,078 (ODM)

Simeon Mwero Mkalla – 22,262 (UDF).

KILIFI COUNTY

AMASON JEFFAH KINGI

Born in Malindi in 1974. Mr Kingi is a professional lawyer who earned his Bachelor of Law Degree from the University of Nairobi in 1998.

He is affiliated to ODM. He will be facing Gideon Mung'aro (Jubilee) and Gilbert Katana (Wiper) in August polls.

2013 election results

Amason Kingi - 94,868

Francis Baya -38,391.

TANA RIVER COUNTY

HUSSEIN TUNEA DADO

He was an affiliate of Wiper party but recently decamped to Jubilee in the run up for the August elections.

He will be battling withGodhana Doyo (ODM) and Danzon Buya Mungatana (PPP).

Mr Dado holds two Masters Degrees—one in Development studies and the second an MBA.

2013 election results

Tunea Hussein Dadho (WDM) - 23,739

Danson Buya Mungatana (TNA) - 14,076 votes.

LAMU COUNTY

ABDALLA TIMAMI ISSA

Born in Lamu in 1956. He is a lawyer by profession (University of Nairobi). Prior to his election, he served as the chairman of the National Museums of Kenya.

He is affiliated to Amani National Congress (ANC). Issa is married to Dr Hajara El-Busaidy and has five children. In August, he will be facing Swaleh Imo (Wiper) and Abdalla M Fadhili (ODM).

2013 election results

Abdalla Timami Issa (UDF) - 19,744

Twaha Fahim Yasin (TNA) - 17,785

TAITA TAVETA COUNTY

JOHN MTUTA MRUTTU

Born in Taita Taveta on 1 July 1955. He is a holder of BSc Mechanical Engineering –Hons (1980) and MBA (2008) both from the University of Nairobi.

John Murutu was floored in the party nominations early in May 2017 and as such he will be vying as an independent candidate.

He will be facing the following: Dan Manzo (Jubilee) Granton Samboja (Wiper), Jacinta Mwatela (ANC), Emmanuel Kisombe (Independent) and Erastus Katani (Independent).

2013 election results

John Mtuta Murutu (ODM) - 34,290

Jacinta Mwatela (Wiper) - 32,890

GARISSA COUNTY

DR. NATHIF JAMA ADAM

Dr Nathif Jama isa graduate of the University of Gloucestershire with a Masters degree in Islamic Banking, Finance and Management. He also studied at Heriot-Watt University, Scotland, MBA certificate in International Trade.

Mr Jama is a member Wiper Democratic Movement and a coalition member of The National Super Alliance (NASA). He quit the 30-year-old banking profession for politics in 2013.

2013 election results

Nathif Jama Adan (Wiper) – 37,910

Ali Bunow Korane (TNA) - 35,098

WAJIR COUNTY

AHMED ABDULLAHI MOHAMED

Born in 1973 in Wajir. He went on to join Jogbaro Primary School, Starehe Boys Centre and the University of Nairobi where he graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) Bachelor’s Degree. He also holds CPA (K) and CPA (USA) qualifications, attained an MBA from Strathmore and a Global Business Strategy qualification from IESA Business School in Barcelona.

He is an affiliate of the Wiper Democratic Movement which is a member party of the National Super Alliance. In august he will be facing Ahmed Abdullahi (ODM), Ahmed Hire (Maendeleo Chap Chap), Yusuf Haji (ANC).

2013 election results

Ahmed Abdullahi Mohamad (ODM) - 40,622

Mohamed Abdi Mahamud (UDF) - 35,269

MANDERA COUNTY

IBRAHIM ALI ROBA

Ali Roba, 42, was born in Mandera County. He is a graduate student of the University of Nairobi, having studied Master of Business Administration (MBA), Strategic management.

Undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Marketing/Marketing Management, General (2009). He is a member of Jubilee Party, a former United Republican Party member. He is the ony candidate in the gubernatorial race in Mandera on a jubilee ticket.

2013 election results

Ibrahim Roba Ali (URP) - 74,149

Adan Abdulla Abdikadir (TNA) - 29,035

MARSABIT COUNTY

UKUR YATTANI KANACHO

Ukur Yattani Kanacho was born in 1967 in Marsabit. In 2005, Ukur Graduated from the University of York in the United Kingdom with Masters of Arts degree in Public Administration and Public Policy. He is an alumni of Egerton University, Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and sociology (1991).

Ukur is affiliated to Orange Democratic Movement a member party of the National Super Alliance (NASA). Ukur Yattani will be facing Jubilee’s Mohamud Mohamed in the August polls.

2013 election results

Ukur Yatani Kanacho (ODM) - 48,491

Mohamud Mohamed Ali (UDF) - 34,829

ISIOLO COUNTY

GODANA DOYO ADHI

Godana Doyo was born in 1970 in Moyale. He is currently pursuing a comparative PhD study that focuses on native land rights in natural resources, focusing on mining and other extractive industries.

He holds a masters degree in Law (LLM by research) and is a graduate of the University of Nairobi, Degree in Law. He served as an advocate of the High Court of Kenya. In August, Mr Doyo will be battling with Mohamed Kuti (narc K), Abdul Buhari (Jubilee) and Ahmed Aden Hire (Maendeleo Chap Chap) to retain his seat.

2013 election results

Godana Doyo Adhi (URP) - 18,660

Abdul Bahari Ali (TNA) - 15,489

MERU COUNTY

PETER GATIRAU MUNYA

Peter Gatirau Munya was born in 1970 in Muthaara, Meru County. In 1956, he joined the University of Brussels, Belgium, for a master’s degree in International Law (International Economic Integration Law). Later he joined the University of Georgia, US, where he attained a second master’s degree in Law (Public International Law).

In 1993 he graduated with a Bachelor of Law degree (LLB Hons), from the University of Nairobi.

He is the Current Chairman of the Council of Governors, the Party of National Unity (PNU) Leader. In August elections, he will be facing Kiraitu Murungi (Jubilee), Mwenda Mbijiwe (ODM) Kiambi Hatheru (Independent), Winnie Kaburu (Wiper) Kinoti Gatobu (Independent) and Kilemi Mwiria (Maendeleo Chap Chap)

2013 election results

Peter Gatirau Munya (APK) - 184,273

Kilemi Mwiria (TNA) - 180,273

THARAKA NITHI COUNTY

SAMUEL MBAE RAGWA

Samuel Ragwa was born at Giampampo village in Mitheru ward, Maara District on 22nd August, 1968. He is a Graduate of the University of Nairobi, Masters in Project Management.

Undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Sociology

He is affiliated to Narc Kenya party. In August, he will be facing Kathee Gwa Kathee (ODM) and Muthomi Njuki (Jubilee).

2013 election results

Samuel Mbae Ragwa (TNA) - 71,033

Petkay Shen Miriti (URP) - 55,903

EMBU COUNTY

MARTIN NYAGA WAMBORA

Martin Wambora was born 9 April 1951. He is a graduate student of the University of Hartford (USA), MBA. He also graduated from the University of Connecticut (USA) with a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management and Rural Development. He is an alumni of Makerere University, having pursued a Bachelor of Science in Political Science.

He is affiliated to Jubilee party and has survived two impeachment motions from his county assembly members of county assembly.

In August, he will be battling with Lenny Kivuti (CHAP CHAP), Leonard Muriuki (NARC K) and Kithinji Kiragu (PNU).

2013 election results

Martin Nyaga Wambora (TNA) - 94,471

Kithinji Kiragu (APK) - 89,516

KITUI COUNTY

JULIUS MAKAU MALOMBE

Julius Makau Malombe is an engineer by profession. He was astudent at the University of Birmingham, UK, Dip in Business Admin. He also graduated from the University of Birmingham, UK, PhD degree, MBA degree.

Graduate student at the University of Aston, UK, MSc degree in Construction Management & Economics and also studied at the University Of Nairobi with a BA degree in Building Economics.

He is currently affiliated to Wiper Democratic Movement. In August, he will be facing Narc Kenya’s Charity Ngilu and Independent candidate David Musila.

2013 election results

Julius Makau Malombe (Wiper) - 163,904

Julius Kiema Kilonzo (Narc - K) - 85,723

MACHAKOS COUNTY

DR ALFRED NGANGAMUTUA

He was born on 22nd August, 1970 in Masii in Machakos County. He was the first official government spokesperson and Public Communications Secretary.

He obtained his BA in Journalism from Whitworth College in the United States and his MSc in Communication from Eastern Washington University. He received his Doctorate in Communication and Media from the University of Western Sydney in Australia.

Dr. Mutua was the first journalist to interview the new president of Zaire/Congo in the 90s Mr. Joseph Kabila soon after he took over the country following his father's assassination (while working for SBS Television of Australia).

He is a leader of a newly formed Maendeleo Chap Chap party. In August, he is set to defend his seat on his party and to face off with Wiper’s Wavinya Ndeti and Lenny Muia of Jubilee Party.

Dr Mutua is accused of procurement irregularities in the purchase of 16 Subaru vehicles worth Sh147 million and ambulances worth Sh145 million, as well as irregularities in the construction of the Kithimani-Makutano road at Sh568 million

2013 election results

Alfred Nganga Mutua (Wiper) - 257,367

Wavinya Ndeti (CCU) - 92,219

MAKUENI COUNTY

KIVUTHA KIBWANA

Kivutha Kibwana was born in Mwanyani, Nzaui District in Makueni county on 13th June 1954.

Graduate Student of Africa International University, (MA – Theological Studies). In August 1988, he graduated from George Washington University, USA (SJD) in International Law; International Human Rights Law; Comparative Law; Jurisprudence and Legal Theory.

August 1983-June 1984: Graduate Student of Harvard University, USA (LLM), Masters of Law with Anthropological Approaches to Law; International Business Transactions; Labour Law; U.S.A. Constitutional Law; Foreign Investment in Natural Resources

1976-1977: Graduate Student of University of London,(LLM), Masters of Law; subjects: Comparative Constitutional Laws of the Commonwealth; Law of Natural Resources Africa South of the Sahara; Principles of Civil Litigation; Jurisprudence and Legal Theory

1973 – 1976: Undergraduate Student of University of Nairobi (LLB.), Bachelor of Law Degree.

He is a member of Wiper Democratic Movement, a party he will be defending his seat in August polls

2013 election results

Kivutha Kibwana (Muungano Party) - 146,760

Philip Kyalo Kituti Kaloki (Wiper) - 79,615

NYANDARUA COUNTY

DANIEL WAITHAKA MWANGI

He is an accomplished technocrat and businessman, and has worked as an accountant for a period spanning over 30 years. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) degree from the University of Nairobi.

He is affiliated to Jubilee Party. He is set to defend his seat on a Jubilee ticket in August elections. Others are Frank Muchina (Maendeleo Chap Chap) and Francis Kimemia (Jubilee)

2013 election results

Daniel Waithaka Mwangi (TNA) - 162,418

Peter Mwangi Gathimba (NARCK – KE) - 55,896

NYERI COUNTY

First Governor: NDERITU GACHAGUA

Governor Nderitu Gachagua died at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London while undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer. He survived three impeachment motions in the Nyeri County Assembly.

Nderitu Gachagua was a Kenyan politician who served as the first governor of Nyeri County having been elected in March 2013 on a GNU party ticket alongside deputy governor, Wamathai Samwel Githaiga. Nderitu studied law at the University of Nairobi.

Second Governor: SAMWEL WAMATHAI GITHAIGA

Samwel Wamaitha Githaiga, 61, was sworn in as the second governor after the death of his senior Nderitu Gachagua.

He is a holder of a bachelor’s degree in Air and Space Law from McGill University in Canada, Wamathai. He is locally referred to as “ambassador” because of his long stint as the Kenyan representative at the International Civil Aviation Organisation in Canada. He is affiliated to Jubilee.

Mr. Wamaitha will be facing Patrick Kairu of DP in August polls.

2013 election results

James Nderitu Gachagua (Grand National Union) - 137,469

Patrick Wahome Gakuru (TNA) - 127,776

KIRINYAGA COUNTY

JOSEPH KATHURI NDATHI

Joseph Ndathi was born in 1957 in the Kirinyaga county. He once served as Director of Administration, Secretary Foreign Service Administration (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) Deputy secretary, principal Immigration Officer and Director of Immigration Services(Office of the President).

He is battling to retain his seat as an independent candidate after being floored by Anne Waiguru, former Devolution Cabinet Secretary. Martha Karua (Narc – Ke) and Karani Macharia of Maendeleo Chapa Chap will be in the race as well.

2013 3l3ction results

Joseph Kathuri Ndathi (TNA) - 148,226

Bedan Muriithi Kagai (GNU) - 65,070

MURANG’A COUNTY

MWANGI WA IRIA

He is an undergraduate student from Moi University. He later joined theChartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply in the United Kingdom (UK).

He has once survived an impeachment motion. He is affiliated to Jubilee party and is the only candidate for the seat.

2013 election results

Wairia Mwangi (TNA) - 336,070

Moses Ndungu Mwangi (Mzalendo) - 43,164

KIAMBU COUNTY

WILLIAM KABOGO GITAU

He was born on 4th April 1961 in Kiambu. Undergraduate Student of Punjab University, India (Bachelor of Commerce)

1975 – 1978: Secondary School Student of Thika Technical School (Kenya Certificate of Education)

1966 – 1974: Primary School Student of St. Georges Ruiru (Certificate of Primary Education).

Until early May, Kabogo was a member of Jubilee party. He ditched Jubilee after being floored by Kabete lawmaker Ferdinand Waititu.

He has resorted to be an independent candidate to defend his seat. Meanwhile he will be facing off with Mr Waititu who is vying on a Jubilee party ticket. Mr Waititu, popularly known as Baba Yao, has already been declared unfit to hold public office by a court in 2015. Mr Waititu has also been implicated in hate speech.

2013 election results

William Kabogo Gitau (TNA) - 487,631

James Karanja Nyoro (NARC) - 241,658

TURKANA COUNTY

JOSEPHAT KOLI NANOK

Josephat Koli Nanok was born in 1950 in Turkana.

Nanok is affiliated to ODM, a member party of the National Super Alliance (NASA).

Nanok will be facing John Munyes who has the Jubilee ticket in August polls.

2013 election results

Nanok Josphat Koli (ODM) - 52,020

Ekalimana Malachy Charles (New Ford Kenya) - 28,576

WEST POKOT COUNTY

SIMON KACHAPIN KITALEI

Simon Kachapin Kitalei was born in the year 1967 in Muino, Sigor, in the eastern part of West Pokot.

Mr Kachapin is a Moi University School of education alumini.

He became the Principal of Ortum Boys High, one of the leading schools in West Pokot and Rift Valley.

He is affiliated to KANU party. Kachapin will be facing KANU’s John Lonyangapuo.

2013 election results

Kitalei Simon Kachapin (KANU) - 60,859

Lipale Geofrey (ODM) - 27,057

SAMBURU COUNTY

MOSES LENOLKULAL KASAINE

He was born in Samburu in 1976. He is a holder of Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics from Egerton University, Njoro.

He is affiliated to Jubilee Party. He is set to defend his seat in August. He is running against Simeon Lesirma (ODM) and Gabriel Lengoiboni (KANU).

2013 election results

Lenolkulal Moses Kasaine (URP) - 25,907

Lekupe Stephen Lmsota (TNA) - 22,475

TRANS NZOIA COUNTY

PATRICK SIMIYU KHAEMBA

Patrick Khaemba was born on 14th December 1955 in Bungoma District. He has a Masters degree in Public Management.

His agenda for Trans Nzoia County is to establish good economic systems that will ensure every financial budget is accounted for at the lapse of every financial year and to tackle insecurity in the area.

He is affiliated to Ford Kenya party, a member party of the National Super Alliance.

2013 election results

Patrick Simiyu Khaemba (FORD – KE) - 89,063

Noah Makhalang’ang’a Wekesa (ODM) - 37,988

UASIN GISHU COUNTY

JACKSON KIPLAGAT MANDAGO

Jackson Mandago was born in 1974. He is a Kenyan politician and the governor of Uasin Gichu County.

Mr Mandago holds a Masters in Procurement and Strategic Planning from Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) and has also has a Bachelor of Science degree in Bio-Chemistry from Kenyatta University.

He is a member of Jubilee party and he is set to defend his seat on the Jubilee ticket. He will, however, be facing off with Bundotich Kiprop alias Buzeki who is on independent ticket.

2013 election results

Mandago Jackson Kiplagat (URP) - 210682

Kamar Margaret Jepkoech (ODM) - 70912

ELGEYO/MARAKWET COUNTY

ALEX TANUI TOLGOS

Alex Tolgos is a holder of an Undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nairobi. He also has CPA qualifications.

Prior to assuming office as Governor Elgeyo Marakwet, he has served in various managerial positions. They include Kenol / Kobil where he was Assistant Operations Manager-Mombasa and later Depot Inventory Manager-Eldoret.

Tolgos also served as Kobcom Petroleum as Operations and Marketing Director. He has also undertaken professional training at the East African Portland Cement, Kenya Railways (Now Rift Valley Railways).

He is a member of Jubilee Party. He will be defending his seat in August.

2013 election results

Alex Tanui Tolgos (URP) - 71,395

Changwony Moses Kiplgat (KANU) - 27,304

NANDI COUNTY

CLEOPHAS KIPROP LAGAT

Cleophas Kiprop Lagat is a Kenyan politician and the governor for Nandi County. He is a member of United Republican Party and a coalition member of Jubilee Alliance. He was elected alongside his deputy governor Dominic Chepyagan Biwott. He lost to Stephen Sang in the nominations and he will not be vying to retain his seat.

However, Sang will be facing off with independent candidates Anderson Serem and Nicholas Tirop.

2013 election results

Lagat Cleophas Kiprop (URP) - 194,291

Bett Judah Kimeli (KANU) - 17,292

BARINGO COUNTY

BENJAMIN CHESIRE CHEBOI

Benjamin Chesire Cheboi was born in 1958 in Baringo district. Graduate student at the University of Manchester United Kingdom, Master’s Degree in Financing Higher Education

Undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Bachelor of Science Degree.

He is an affiliate of Jubilee Party but lost I the primaries to Stanley Kaptis, who will be going for the set on a Jubilee ticket, Mr Kaptis will battle with KANU’s Isaac Chebwon in August polls.

2013 elections results

Cheboi Benjamin (URP) - 99,356

Stanley Kiptis (KANU) - 44,883

LAIKIPIA COUNTY

JOSHUA WAKAHORA IRUNGU

Joshua Irungu was born on 2nd February 1970 in Laikipia County. He holds a Masters degree in Agriculture and Rural Development. He also has a Bachelor’s degree in Resource Management.

Between 1999 and 2002: Program Coordinator for SARDEP in Laikipia, a task that saw him co-ordinating and managing the semi-arid lands program in the area.

In total he has over 15 years’ experience in Community Development programmes in Laikipia County.

He is affiliated to Jubilee Party.

2013 election results

Joshua Wakahora Irungu (TNA) - 83,678

Festus Mwangi Kiunjuri (GNU) - 42,906

NAKURU COUNTY

KINUTHIA MBUGUA

Kinuthia Mbugua was born on 1st September 1953 in Kiambu District.

Undergraduate student at the University undertaking Degree in Bachelor of Arts

He has undertaken various courses in management, performance and strategic planning in Britain, South Africa and USA respectively.

Throughout his career, Kinuthia Mbugua has been in and out of class as he sought to improve his leadership and management skills.

Governor Kinuthia Mbugua unveiled former Kenya Rural Roads Authority finance director Dr Peter Ketyenya as his running mate in his reelection bid.

He is affiliated to Jubilee Party. He will be facing out with Peter Koros of Chama Cha Mashinani.

2013 election results

Kinuthia Mbugua (TNA) - 470,495

Lawrence Kiprop Bomett (ODM) - 118,965

NAROK COUNTY

SAMUEL KUNTAI OLE TUNAI

Samuel Kuntai Ole Tunai, 40 was born in Narok County. He holds a degree in Public Administration and International Relations from the University of Nairobi. He envisioned developing a food secure and prosperous Narok.

2013 election results

Samuel Kuntai Tunai (UDP) - 87,832

Joseph Tiampati Ole Musuni (KNC) - 55,008

KAJIADO COUNTY

DAVID K. NKEDIANYE

Ole Nkedianye has previously served as a community facilitator for International Livestock Research Institute helping in the provision of breeding bulls for farmers in pastoral regions in Kajiado, Kenya.

Born in Kitengela, Kajiado County. Nkedianye is a graduate of the University of Nairobi and holds a PhD in Pastoralism land-use and conservation from the University of Edinburgh.

Nkedianye also hold a Bachelor of Education in Social education and ethics from the Catholic University of East Africa.

Nkedianye is affiliated to ODM, a party in the NASA outfit. He will be facing PNU’s Daniel Livondo and Jubilee’s Joseph Ole Lenku in august polls.

2013 election results

David k. Nkedianye (ODM) - 125,563

Daniel Mpute Nina (URP) - 95,526

KERICHO COUNTY

PROF. PAUL KIPRONO CHEPKWONY

Prof. Paul Kiprono Chepkwony was born in Ainamoi, Kericho County. Graduate student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, PhD in Organic Chemistry

1993 – 1996: Graduate student at the University of Nairobi, Master in Chemistry

1989 – 1992: Undergraduate student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Bachelor degree in Chemistry.

The main issues at the top of his agenda include improving education in the county, empowering farmers economically, developing the road infrastructure, improving maternal healthcare, mitigating lightning strikes through setting-up of lightning arresters, creating a low tax jurisdiction for investment and wooing investment with a focus on youth employment.

He is affiliated to Jubilee Party and will be defending his seat in august, battling out with KANU’s Jonah Keter.

2013 election results

Paul Kiprono Chepkwony (URP) - 181,862

Jonah Kipkemoi Keter (UDF) - 29,878

BOMET COUNTY

ISSACK KIPRONO RUTO

Isaac Ruto is a Kenyan politician and the governor of Bomet County, alongside deputy governor Stephen Mutai. He was a member of the United Republican Party but currently working on publicizing his new party Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM).

Isaac Ruto is a former Chairman of the council of Governors. He hails from Tumoi, Sigor in Chepalungu District.

Mr Ruto has studied political science at the University of Nairobi. He is also a former Chairman of the Council of Governors in Kenya.

He quit Jubilee affiliated party and formed his own Chama Cha Mashinani party, with which he is vying to retain his seat. He joined NASA promising to bring 1.5 million votes from Bomet and beyond. He will be battling for the seat with Jubilee’s Joyce Laboso.

2013 election results

Issack Kiprono Ruto (URP) - 136,377

Julius Kipyegon Kones (KNC) - 74,272

KAKAMEGA COUNTY

WYCLIFFE AMBETSA OPARANYA

Wycliffe Oparanya was born on March 25, 1956. He was the Minister of State for Planning, National Development and Vision 2030 in government of President Mwai Kibaki.

Oparanya holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting option) and an MBA (Finance) from the University of Nairobi and is currently in the process of completing his PhD (Economics) at the University of Dar- es- Salaam, Tanzania. He is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) as well as numerous other professional bodies.

Oparanya has 23 years’ experience in local and international Finance Management, Audit and Business Consultancy.

He is a member of ODM an affiliate party of NASA. In August, he will be defending his seat after having been given a direct nomination by ODM. However, he will be in the race with Mabel Muruli (Jubilee), Michael Osundwa (ANC) Suleiman Sumba (KANU) and Boni Khalwale (Ford Kenya)

2013 election results

Oparanyah Wycliffe Ambetsa (ODM) - 260,911

Shitanda Soita Peter (New Ford Ke) - 134,966

VIHIGA COUNTY

EPAINTIOUS MOSES AKARANGA

He went to Mbale Boys’ School and later Chesamis High School. He graduated with a bachelor of Arts degree in International Business Administration and a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from United States International University. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D in Business Administration (Strategic Management) at the University of Nairobi

He worked with Barclays Bank of Kenya Ltd as a Senior Business Manager. Thereafter, he worked with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Kenya (P.A.G. Kenya) as the General Administrator

During his tenure as a Minister, Kenya was awarded the most prestigious public Service trophy-The United Nations Public Service Award. He is also hailed for initiating the Performance Contracting in the Public Service, introduction of the Rapid Results Initiative program (RRI), oversaw review of salaries of Civil servants and increment of pension to all retired civil servants.

He is the former Member of Parliament for Sabatia constituency, having defeated Musalia Mudavadi of KANU from the Sabatia Constituency seat in the 2002 elections on a Ford-Kenya ticket. He served only one term and was defeated by Mudavadi, who was now representing Orange Democratic Movement at the 2007 elections. He is the first Kenyan Member of Parliament to unseat a sitting Vice President. He is currently in PPK.

In August, he will be facing off with Wilbur Otichilo (ODM), Kennedy Butiko UDP and Yusuf Chanzu (ANC)

2013 election results

Epaintious Moses Akaranga (PPK) - 58,543

Kennedy Enosi Butiko (ODM) - 57,096

BUNGOMA COUNTY

KENNETH MAKELO LUSAKA

Born on 18 September 1963 (Age 52). He holds a Master of Arts in Policy and Administration from the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) – The Hague. He also has a Bachelors Degree in Political Science and History from the University of Nairobi.

Governor Lusaka resigned as a Permanent Secretary in 2012, to make a debut in elective politics where he contested the Bungoma Gubernatorial seat during the 2013 General Elections.

This he was able to do through his well-articulated, researched and development oriented policies that addressed the needs of the people of Bungoma through his Manifesto. On 4th of March 2013, he was elected the first governor of Bungoma County. He was elected on a New Ford Kenya ticket in 2013, and Jubilee Party has already handed him a direct ticket to contest in August.

Mr Lusaka has been under probe over his county’s purchase of 10 "special" and "non-carcinogenic" wheelbarrows at the cost of Sh100,000 each. He is also linked to a company that has allegedly won the majority of Bungoma County contracts.

He will be facing off to retain his seat with ODM’s Alfred Khang’ati.

2013 election results

Kenneth Makelo Lusaka (NFK) - 242,549

Alfred Khang’ati (ODM) - 69,577

BUSIA COUNTY

SOSPETER ODEKE OJAAMONG

Ojaamong was born in 1963 Teso South District in Busia County. Ojaamong joined Kenyatta University where he graduated with Bachelor of Education (Science) degree, majoring in Biology and Chemistry.

He also holds a Post graduate Diploma in Business Management from the Kenya Institute of Management.

He was elected for Amagoro Constituency in the National Assembly of Kenya in the parliamentary election of 2007.

He is affiliated to ODM, a member party of the National Super Alliance, NASA. He won the nominations to defend his seat in August polls.

He will however be facing Paul Otuoma as an independent candidate, who disputed ODM primaries.

Others in the race include: Michael Oloo (FORD K), Humphrey Nakitare (ANC) and Dan Barasa (Jubilee).

2013 election results

Sospeters Odeke Ojaamong Son (ODM) - 117,078

Vincent Sidai Esyepet (UDF) - 74,670

SIAYA COUNTY

CORNEL RASANGA AMOTH

Cornel Rasanga was born on 22 May 1957 in Alego in Siaya County. Cornel Rasanga entered the political arena in 2013, when he vied for Governor for Siaya County. The Orange Democratic Movement selected Cornel Rasanga as the party candidate after a disputed party nomination between Oburu Odinga and Oduol.

2000 – 2003: Undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Bachelor of Law (LLB). Up to 1985: Student at Kenya Institute of Administration (KIA), Diploma in Supplies Management. In 1979 – 1981 he was an undergraduate student at the University of Nairobi, Bachelor of Arts in Economics degree. He is a member of the ODM party. He will be facing Nicholas Gumbo in August polls.

2013 election results

Cornel Rasanga Amoth (ODM) - 138,908

William Odhiambo Oduol (NAPK) - 135,413

KISUMU COUNTY

JACKTON NYANUNGO RANGUMA

Jackton Ranguma studied Public Finance and Development, Tax Policy and Revenue Forecasting, Restructuring and Reconstruction, Project Management and International Management.

Prior to his entry into politics Jack Ranguma worked as an accountant for close to 30 years. In 1979, he was appointed Audit Manager in charge of a large quasi-government in audit portfolio by BDO International.

He was promoted to Partner in charge of audit services in 1989, and served as Partner and Head of Financial and Management Consultancy Services between 1991 and 2001.

In 2002 he was appointed Commissioner of Income Tax, and later Commissioner of Domestic Taxes, Kenya Revenue Authority. In 2008 he became Senior Policy Advisor, Tax Justice Network Africa, a pan-African organization.

Graduate student at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Master of Science (International Accounting and Management Information Systems)

He holds a Masters Degree in Accounting and Finance.

He also studied Public Finance and Development, Tax Policy and Revenue Forecasting, Restructuring and Reconstruction, Project Management and International Management.

He will be defending his seat in August as an independent candidate, facing off with Omolo Peter Owino (ANC) and Anyang Nyongo of ODM

2013 election results

Jackton Nyanungo Ranguma (ODM) - 336,270

Francis Otieno Osenya (TNA) - 7,300

HOMA BAY COUNTY

CYPRIAN OTIENO AWITI

Cyprian Awiti was born on 14th December 1952 in Rachuonyo Sub County, Homa Bay County, in the western part of Kenya.

Graduate student at Manchester University, Master of Education in Management Administration

Undergraduate student at Mombasa Technical Training Institute, Electrical Engineering.

Secondary school student at Mawego Technical Institute

Primary school student at Mawego Primary School in Rachuonyo.

He will be defending his seat on ODM ticket in August polls.

2013 election results

Cyprian Otieno Awiti (ODM) - 295,657

Benson Owiti Odhiambo (TNA) - 5,257

MIGORI COUNTY

ZACHARIA OKOTH OBADO

He is a trained teacher and was formerly the Director of Kenya Sugar Board (KSB).In Kenya’s 2013 general election, John vied in the gubernatorial elections, winning as Governor of Migori County, alongside Deputy Governor Nelson Mahanga Mwita. He was elected on a PDP party ticket.

His election was petitioned by Prof Oyugi who was vying on an ODM ticket which made the High court to order for a recount of votes and saw the vote margin rise from 163 to 577, with Mr Obado still the winner, Prof Oyugi disagreed.

He appealed the decision maintaining that scrutiny of all votes showed he won by 174 votes. Mr Obado and the electoral commission asked judges to adopt an argument by the High Court, that an election is not a mathematical puzzle.

He holds a Masters in Strategic Management from Kenyatta University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Kenyatta University.

Mr Obado is accused of embezzlement and loss of up to Sh600 million through procurement irregularities, violation of Section 11 of the Election Offences Act, 2016 including the use of and perpetration of violence during the ODM party nominations in April 2017 leading to destruction of property, loss of lives and intimidation of opponents by issuing threats.

He is a member of PDK. He will be defending his seat in August polls. He will be facing Okoth Jack (ANC) and Ochilo Ayako (IND)

2013 election results

Zacharia Okoth Obado (PDK) - 132,687

Edward Akongo Oyugi (ODM) - 115,270

KISII COUNTY

ONGWAE JAMES ELVIS OMARIBA

James Ongwae was born in Mwamonari Location, Marani District, Kitutu Chache North Constituency, Kisii County in 1952.

He holds a postgraduate Diploma in Management and Administration from East and Southern Africa Management Institute (ESAMI).

He has completed his Master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration from the Institute of Social Studies-The Hague, Holland

He joined the University of Nairobi where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in Economics and Government.

He is affiliated to ODM and he will be battlingwith Chris Obure (Jubilee), Patrick Lumumba (Wiper), Omingo Magara (PDP), Boniface Omboto (Chap Chap) and Manson Nyamweya (KNC).

2013 election results

Ongwae James Elvis Omariba (ODM) - 229,380

Nyaberi Justry P Lumumba (TNA) - 63,616

NYAMIRA COUNTY

JOHN NYANGARAMA OBIERO

John Nyangarama Obiero was born in 1946. He holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Nairobi.

He is a member of ODM party, an affiliate of National Super Alliance, NASA.

Nyangarama will be facing Walter Nyambati (Jubilee) to defend his seat.

2013 election results

John Nyagarama Obiero (ODM) - 33,664

Charles Onsongo Mochama (IP) - 29,401

NAIROBI COUNTY

EVANS KIDERO

He is the current governor of Nairobi County. He has over 20 years of corporate management who ventured into politics in 2013 through the Orange Democratic Movement.

Dr Kidero is accused of procurement irregularities of up to Sh4.6 billion in a plan to launch a metro transportation system.

He is also accused of bribery and payment of Sh200 million to Justice Philip Tunoi and also assaulting Rachel Shebesh

An IPSOS public perception survey released on September 8, 2015 ranked the candidate as the fourth most corrupt leader.

2013 election results

Evans Kidero (ODM) - 692,490

Ferdinand Waititu (TNA) - 618,047

Also read: The 47 Senators