18/08/2025
The political atmosphere in Busia County is slowly heating up as the latest 2025 gubernatorial popularity poll reveals early voter preferences across all seven sub-counties — Matayos, Butula, Nambale, Samia, Bunyala, Teso North, and Teso South.
According to the poll conducted last week, incumbent Governor Dr. Paul Nyongesa Otuoma remains the frontrunner, commanding 38% support, solidifying his lead as the preferred candidate for the 2027 general election.
Why Otuoma Leads
In interviews and open forums such as local funerals, political barazas, and community events, many residents expressed confidence in Otuoma’s leadership with major improvement in health and agriculture sector. Despite acknowledging that the county is still a work in progress, voters praised him for bringing significant national government projects that were absent in previous regimes.
Among the highlighted achievements are:
• The Export Processing Zone (EPZ) development
• Establishment of modern markets
• The dualling of the Mundika–Busia Town Road, which is currently at the final planning stage and expected to break ground soon
• Major inter-sub-county road projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and boosting trade
Though the demolition of old kiosks, installation of cabros, and construction of new county kiosks for improved revenue collection have stirred mixed reactions, many residents see these changes as part of a broader plan to modernize Busia town.
However, a segment of the population remains skeptical and insists Otuoma should be given time to complete his 5 year term, with some warning that if he fails to deliver fully by 2027, they will vote him out.
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The Contenders: Amug & Sidai Tie at 29%
Coming in as serious contenders are Hon. PAS Arthur Amug Osiya and Engineer Vincent Sidai, who are tied at 29% each. The two aspirants have gained traction for their energetic approach to leadership and their frequent presence in community initiatives across the county.
Their popularity has largely stemmed from:
• Public service experience in high-ranking government offices - national exposure and experience
• Community empowerment programs
• Distribution of relief food and support to vulnerable groups
Many voters said that if Otuoma is to be replaced, either of these two would be ideal. “They’re visible, active, and they seem to care. They’re not just talking; they’re doing,” said a voter in Teso North.
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Speaker Odilo Trails with 3%, Faces Credibility Doubts
Speaker of the County Assembly, Eng. Fredrick Odilo, trails in the fourth position with 3%, facing major credibility issues from residents.
Some questioned his track record, noting that he had never held a public administrative office before Governor Otuoma recommended him for speaker seat. Others expressed concern that Odilo is now criticizing the same government that elevated him — without offering internal solutions.
Others suggested his actions are emotion-driven, arguing that responsible leadership requires internal problem-solving rather than public confrontations. Some even accused Odilo of pushing a personal agenda, claiming his grievances are tied to unfulfilled political promises within his camp, not public interest, Further backlash followed after allegations emerged from a group of youth and women (names withheld) that helped organize his recent rugby tournament. They claim they were used for mobilization and marketing of the event and have not been paid. Attempts to contact his team for comment were reportedly met with silence.
Some residents urged Odilo to resign if he truly wants to run for governor, stating that “real leaders don’t campaign from within and attack their own government — they fix problems from inside or leave honorably.”
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Other Aspirants
Babangida trails at the bottom with 1% support, according to the poll. While his presence in the race is noted, he has yet to build significant momentum or visibility among voters.
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Summary of Poll Results:
Candidate Popularity (%)
Dr. Paul Otuoma 38%
Hon. PAS Arthur Amug 29%
Eng. Vincent Sidai 29%
Eng. Fredrick Odilo 3%
Babangida Shere 1%
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As Busia’s political climate continues to evolve, the battle for the gubernatorial seat is shaping into a three-horse race, with Governor Otuoma leading but facing stiff competition from rising stars Amug and Sidai. Whether the incumbent can retain his position or be unseated remains to be seen, but for now, the voters have spoken — and all eyes are on delivery, not just promises.
