Fiery Former Bunge La Mwananchi President Henry Shitanda Sets Sights on Kakamega Senate Seat
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KAKAMEGA, KENYA —
During Kenya’s hotly contested 2017 general elections, only three people held the title “President” in the public eye. There was the official Head of State, Uhuru Kenyatta, the self-declared ‘People’s President’ Raila Odinga, and another bold figure rising from the grassroots — Henry Shitanda, the firebrand former President of Bunge La Mwananchi.
Now, the youthful activist-turned-entrepreneur has shifted his political compass and is setting his sights on an even bigger stage: the Kakamega Senate seat, currently held by the combative Dr. Boni Khalwale.
Speaking exclusively to GoodMorningKenyaNews.com, Shitanda didn’t mince his words.
“I’m simply responding to a higher calling from the great people of Kakamega,” he declared.
“Having served this nation in various capacities, including as President of Bunge La Mwananchi, I believe I possess the capacity, experience, and boldness to step up as the next Senator. I’ve traversed every constituency in Kakamega laying the groundwork — my competitors should start drafting their concession speeches. The only thing standing between them and defeat is time.”
From Streets to Boardrooms — A Man on a Mission
Henry Shitanda’s political odyssey reads like a Kenyan success thriller. From firebrand street activism to commanding the people’s parliament, to now leading multi-million-shilling companies, Shitanda’s rise is nothing short of extraordinary.
He’s the current director of Linzi Limited, a private security firm, and Westkel Ltd, a company with interests in transport and real estate.
“I learned hard work, discipline, and resilience early in life,” he reflects.
“I’ve had the privilege of engaging with great leaders of this country who mentored me. I’m the kind of person who, once I set my eyes on a goal — I achieve it.”
His days at Bunge La Mwananchi were marked with fire and fearless resolve. One of the most publicised standoffs of his tenure was with then-Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko. Shitanda publicly challenged Sonko’s unilateral engagement with JamboPay — the firm contracted to collect county revenue — even going as far as writing to the EACC and the DPP to investigate. That case remains active to this day.
Why the Senate? Why Now?
Shitanda says his decision to run for Kakamega Senator is deeply rooted in his passion for safeguarding devolution — one of the pillars of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution.
“Devolution is the crown jewel of our Constitution. It has brought services closer to the mwananchi. But today, it’s under threat,” he warns.
“Governors must be held accountable. Counties must feel the real impact of devolution. As Senator, I’ll ensure Kakamega doesn’t just receive funds — but sees tangible value for every shilling spent.”
This isn’t Shitanda’s first stab at elective politics. He previously vied for the Lugari parliamentary seat, where he came in third — an outcome he attributes to joining the race late and running as an independent.
“We came in late, but we rattled seasoned politicians. This time, we’re ready — we have the right team, the right message, and most importantly, the right party.”
A Storm is Brewing in Kakamega
As 2027 draws closer, the Kakamega political landscape is heating up, and Shitanda is entering the arena guns blazing. With a sharp tongue, a bold vision, and the backing of a growing grassroots movement, he is poised to give the political old guard a run for their money.
One thing is clear — Henry Shitanda isn’t just running. He’s coming for the Senate seat with fire in his belly and the people of Kakamega firmly behind him.
Stay with GoodMorningKenyaNews.com for exclusive updates on the Kakamega senatorial race and more on Kenya’s fast-evolving political landscape.
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