Anthony Ochieng has declared his independent candidacy for the Ochero County parliamentary seat in the upcoming January 15, 2026 elections, promising to bring a “saucepan” of development to the constituency.
Ochieng lost a tightly contested NRM primary in July to Francis Okullo but has now decided to continue his political journey outside the party.
Speaking to supporters, he said the saucepan symbol represents the work that needs to be “cooked” for the advancement of the constituency.
“A saucepan was chosen to symbolise a lot of cooking that needs to be done for the development of our motherland,” Ochieng said.
In a statement to his supporters, Ochieng thanked those who had backed him during the primaries and explained his decision to run independently.
“In the primary election, we performed exceedingly well albeit we were unlucky to clinch the flag. After listening to feedback from the Secretariat, voters, and my family, we have seen it worthy to continue the journey due to the massive opportunity that lies ahead,” he said.
Ochieng is set to face a competitive race in Ochero County, which became a fully fledged constituency in Kaberamaido District in 2020.
Simon Peter Emigu, the incumbent MP under the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), is seeking re-election.
Other contenders include NRM flagbearer Francis Okullo, independent Veronica Isala, Calvin Otocon of UPC, and independent Malvine Luben Eputu.
The January 2026 elections will test party loyalty and individual influence, with multiple independents and opposition candidates vying to make inroads in a constituency that has seen rising political competition since its creation.