“Panic Has Hit My Rivals!” Didmus Barasa Responds Amid Reports of Withdrawing From Bungoma Gubernatorial Race in 2027

Kimilili Member of Parliament Didmus Barasa has strongly dismissed reports suggesting that he has withdrawn from the 2027 Bungoma gubernatorial contest, describing the circulating statement as fake, misleading, and the work of political opponents rattled by his growing influence in the county.

The outspoken legislator was forced to respond after a purported statement bearing his name spread rapidly across social media platforms on Monday, May 25, 2026. 

The statement claimed that Barasa had made the difficult decision to abandon his gubernatorial ambitions in order to focus on his family and personal matters.

The viral message appeared authentic to many readers and quickly sparked debate among political supporters and rivals across Bungoma County. 

In the statement, the alleged author thanked residents of Bungoma and Kimilili for their continued support and suggested that stepping away from active politics was in the best interests of his family.

“I wish to inform the people of Bungoma that after careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to step out of the 2027 gubernatorial race in order to focus on my family,” part of the widely circulated statement read.

The claims immediately generated reactions from supporters, with some expressing disappointment while others questioned the authenticity of the announcement. 

Political observers also began speculating about what such a move would mean for the increasingly competitive race to succeed the county’s leadership in 2027.

However, Barasa wasted little time in dismissing the reports.

Taking to his social media platforms, the MP rubbished the statement and suggested that political competitors had resorted to propaganda after sensing the growing momentum behind his gubernatorial campaign.

“Panic mode, mutalii amekuliwa kila kitu mpaka pesa, Presha imepanda anaanza prokopanda,” Barasa posted.

Although he did not directly identify the individuals he believed were behind the fake statement, his remarks appeared aimed at political rivals who may be seeking to create confusion among his supporters ahead of the election season.

The lawmaker's response was quickly shared online, with many of his supporters interpreting it as confirmation that his gubernatorial ambitions remain firmly intact. 

Several allies also came to his defense, accusing opponents of using misinformation campaigns to undermine his political standing.

Barasa has been among the most vocal politicians positioning themselves for the Bungoma governor’s seat.

Over the past several months, he has intensified his engagements across the county, attending public functions, development meetings, church events, and grassroots forums in what many analysts view as an early campaign strategy.

His visibility has significantly increased as political temperatures gradually rise ahead of the 2027 General Election. 

The legislator has consistently presented himself as a leader capable of transforming Bungoma through improved infrastructure, better service delivery, youth empowerment initiatives, and expanded economic opportunities.

Political observers note that Bungoma is expected to witness one of the most competitive gubernatorial races in Western Kenya. 

Several influential political figures are already laying the groundwork for possible bids, making the contest one of the most closely watched battles in the region.

The emergence of fake statements and political misinformation is becoming increasingly common as election campaigns draw closer. 

Analysts warn that candidates and voters alike must remain vigilant and verify information before accepting or sharing it online.

For Barasa, the latest controversy appears unlikely to slow his political ambitions. Instead, his swift response suggests that he intends to remain firmly in the race and continue building support across the county.

Supporters argue that the attempt to portray him as having abandoned the contest demonstrates growing concern among rivals about his popularity. 

Critics, however, maintain that the real contest has not yet begun and that the political landscape could change significantly before nominations and campaigns officially commence.

As Bungoma's political scene continues to evolve, one thing is now clear: Didmus Barasa has not withdrawn from the gubernatorial race. 

The MP insists he remains fully committed to his 2027 bid and is prepared to face his opponents at the ballot box rather than through social media speculation.

With more than a year before the elections, the battle for Bungoma County is already taking shape, and Barasa appears determined to remain at the center of it.