Here are the top 8 Kenyan Senators who want to be Governors in 2017 (Part I)

The promulgation of the Constitution of Kenya in August 2010 ushered a new era in the country’s political landscape, giving rise to devolution and consequently the formation of the Senate.

According to Article 96 of the Constitution, the Senate is charged with the responsibility of determining the allocation of national revenue among Counties and exercises oversight over national revenue allocated to the county governments.

A number of Senators who were elected in 2013 have now firmly set their eyes on a different role -that of the Governor, in a strategic shift to gain more powers and assume the position of county boss after the August elections.

8. Chris Obure (Senator Kisii)

Long serving Kisii politician Chris Obure was elected on an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket but has since shifted his allegiance to President Uhuru Kenyatta and the Jubilee Party.

He has already picked former Ford People national chairman Albert Nyaundi as his running mate in the race for Kisii governor.

7. Stephen Sang (Senator Nandi)

Senator Sang is one of the youngest politicians in Kenya and is a vocal contributor to sessions in the Senate.

He was elected as Nandi Senator in 2013 on a United Republican Party ticket but is now eyeing the gubernatorial seat held by Cleophas Lagat.

The Bachelors of Law Undergraduate Student from the University of Nairobi has been a fierce critic of Governor Lagat blaming him of misusing the county funds.

6. James Orengo (Senator Siaya)

The distinguished lawyer is rumoured to be eyeing the Siaya Gubernatorial seat currently being held by Cornel Rasanga.

One of the leading lights of Kenya’s Second Liberation, Orengo is a staunch supporter of Raila Odinga and has featured prominently in the opposition serving in the coordinating committee of Cord and now the newly formed National Super Alliance (NASA).

He has in the past differed publicly with Governor Rasanga over the management of county affairs accusing him of compromising the oversight role of MCAs to the chagrin of the electorate, who want services.

5. Peter Anyang' Nyong'o

The Kisumu Gubernatorial battle is set to prove a headache for the opposition ODM party after Kisumu Senator Anyang’ Nyong’o threw his hat into the ring to square it off with the incumbent Jack Ranguma and Cord leader Raila’s sister and Deputy Governor Ruth Odinga.

Last year, the senator surprised many after he apologised to Kisumu residents for making Jack Ranguma the governor as he has failed to develop the county.

Nyong’o said it is not too late for Kisumu and residents should now elect him governor after witnessing how badly Ranguma has performed.

Nyong’o also faulted the Kisumu government for not involving citizens in public participation on county matters. He said he wants to ensure Kisumu develops and residents receive services.