Former Deputy Chief of Staff in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, has opened up about his decision to resign from President William Ruto’s government and his intention to seek the country’s presidency in the 2027 general election.
Speaking to a local radio station on Thursday, January 15, 2026, Owalo stated that the time is now ripe for him to front his own candidacy, having worked behind the scenes and delivered results for different presidential candidates and politicians in the past.
He explained that his candidacy is hinged on righting the wrongs in government, such as prevalent corruption and other misdeeds, and ensuring meaningful empowerment and development reach the grassroots level.
“I am tired of using my brain to work for political leaders. I have worked for Raila and, most recently, President Ruto, whom we delivered and made president. I am now focused on working for my own bid,” he stated.
Days after announcing his bid, Owalo revealed that his political vehicle—a new party—will soon be unveiled. He promised a transformative and inclusive party that will not operate like most existing political parties.
“We will launch our party next month. In the meantime, we are working on some logistical issues before the unveiling exercise,” he added.
Owalo further defended his decision to vie for the country’s top seat, pointing to his vast experience in the private sector as a consultant and his tenure as Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy (ICT) as clear evidence of his capabilities.
He noted that political interference and corruption prevented him from fully implementing the agenda he championed while in government, which ultimately prompted his decision to bid for the presidency and lead the country himself.
“My track record as ICT Cabinet Secretary, Deputy Chief of Staff, and in the private sector speaks for itself. I am a performer and result-oriented – my record is loud and clear. Opinion polls consistently ranked me among the top three performers for a sustained period,” Owalo stated of his rich CV that also includes 23 years of service in the private sector.
“There is always a divergence between what you want implemented and the actual situation in the working environment. Corruption and conflict of interest derail such dreams. Implementation of projects meant to benefit the people is at times blocked by procurement officers who get in the way and direct the benefits to their proxies,” he argued.
His decision to run against Ruto has elicited political reactions, with Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo and Migori Senator Eddy Oketch among those who have spoken on his candidacy.
