As the countdown to the 2027 General Election gathers pace, political differences among several governors are increasingly becoming public, raising concerns about the unity of county leadership and the future effectiveness of devolution.
The growing supremacy battles among county bosses are threatening to overshadow the gains made through the Council of Governors (CoG), with analysts warning that personal and political rivalries could weaken collective efforts to address issues affecting counties.
One of the most visible feuds is between James Orengo and Gladys Wanga.
The fallout reportedly worsened after aides linked to Orengo were allegedly attacked during political meetings in Homa Bay County. Following the incident, Orengo blamed both Wanga and President William Ruto for what he described as politically motivated interference.
The disagreement has also exposed divisions within Orange Democratic Movement. Orengo has aligned himself with a faction associated with Edwin Sifuna, while Wanga remains a key ally of Oburu Oginga, who supports cooperation between ODM and the ruling administration.
Political observers believe the dispute could further deepen divisions within the opposition if left unresolved.
In Western Kenya, George Natembeya has emerged as one of the strongest critics of President Ruto's administration and has openly campaigned against the President's re-election bid.
His stance has brought him into direct conflict with several governors allied to the government, particularly Fernandes Barasa.
Their rivalry intensified after the Malava by-election, where Natembeya backed DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako while Barasa supported UDA candidate David Ndakwa, who eventually won the seat.
Since then, the two leaders have exchanged public criticism, with Barasa accusing Natembeya of interfering in Kakamega politics and Natembeya maintaining that he has a right to participate in regional political discussions.
Another major disagreement involves Natembeya and Kenneth Lusaka.
The two leaders have taken opposing positions on the region's political direction ahead of 2027. Lusaka, who supports President Ruto's re-election, believes Western Kenya should wait until 2032 before seeking the presidency.
Natembeya and other opposition leaders, however, argue that the region is ready to field its own presidential candidate much sooner.
The dispute has escalated into personal exchanges, with Lusaka claiming he helped Natembeya rise through government ranks. Natembeya strongly rejected the claims, insisting his career progression was based on his own work and experience in public administration.
Political analysts warn that these disputes could affect cooperation within important regional organizations such as the Lake Region Economic Bloc, whose success largely depends on unity among governors.
Some observers also fear that continued public disagreements may weaken the effectiveness of the Council of Governors, making it more difficult for county leaders to speak with one voice on matters affecting devolution.
While many of the disagreements are rooted in differing political ideologies and alliances, analysts note that the approaching 2027 elections are accelerating tensions.
With governors increasingly positioning themselves for future political influence, succession battles, regional dominance contests, and alliances around presidential candidates are becoming more visible.
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