No ‘Tutam’ chants for President Ruto if my competitor Arthur Osiya is on the ballot, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma tells Oburu Odinga

A fresh political storm is brewing in Busia County after Governor Paul Otuoma warned that chants of ‘Tutam’ for President William Ruto could fade if his competitor Arthur Osiya is cleared to contest in the 2027 gubernatorial race

Otuoma, who is eyeing to defend his seat, is said to have made the remarks during a closed-door meeting with Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Oburu Odinga, according to sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the discussions.

Sources indicated that the governor told the meeting he would advise his supporters to withhold ‘Tutam’ chants if Osiya is on the ballot, arguing that he should be allowed to run without a strong challenger.

 He reportedly maintained that Osiya’s entry into the race would significantly disrupt the current political balance in Busia.

“He made it clear that Osiya’s presence on the ballot would change everything, including how his supporters respond to national political messaging,” one insider said, adding that the discussions also touched on broader ODM strategy in the county.

The sources further revealed that Otuoma positioned himself as the most suitable candidate to carry the broad based ODM ticket, insisting that consolidating support within the party would be critical in securing victory in the 2027 contest.

The developments come at a time when political activity in Busia is beginning to intensify, with early alignments taking shape among potential contenders. 

The growing visibility of Arthur Osiya has added a new layer to the race.

Osiya, who is associated with political interests aligned to President William Ruto, is seen as a factor that has further heightened political tensions in the region as parties begin to position themselves ahead of the polls.

His growing popularity on the ground has unsettled opponents, with some observers describing him as a formidable contender in the race. 

Political watchers say his rising influence and early mobilisation efforts have positioned him as a strong candidate, with a section of supporters already viewing him as a potential front-runner.

At the same time, Otuoma’s stance on zoning has sparked debate among leaders in Busia. The governor has consistently maintained that zoning will be implemented, with the Orange Democratic Movement expected to field candidates under a broad-based arrangement aimed at strengthening the party’s hold in the county.

However, United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leaders in Busia County have since rejected zoning proposals ahead of the next general election, saying they could promote unqualified leadership.

The officials argued that the county has lagged in development due to politics driven by popularity rather than merit. They maintained that leadership positions should be open to competition, allowing voters to make independent choices without party-imposed structures.

They further stated that zoning risks locking out capable leaders who may not belong to dominant political arrangements in the region. According to them, such an approach could undermine democratic principles and limit political inclusivity.

Political leaders across the county are now increasingly divided over the issue, with each camp seeking to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 elections. Analysts say the debate over zoning, coupled with emerging rivalries, is likely to shape early campaign dynamics.

With Arthur Osiya gaining visibility among top contenders to oust Governor Paul Otuoma, political activity in Busia County is expected to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections. Aspirants are now stepping up early mobilisation efforts across the county. The unfolding realignments are set to shape the direction of the gubernatorial race.