NAIROBI, Kenya — Eliud Owalo has resigned as Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Delivery and Government Efficiency, citing his decision to run for president in the 2027 General Election.
Owalo announced his immediate resignation on Sunday after publicly declaring his intention to challenge President William Ruto for the country’s top seat.
In a statement shared on social media, Owalo said continuing to serve in government after declaring his presidential ambitions would be untenable.
He said his decision was guided by the need to uphold constitutional principles and avoid a conflict of interest as the country edges closer to the next election cycle.
Owalo had been appointed to the powerful role at the Executive Office of the President, where he was tasked with coordinating government delivery and enhancing efficiency across ministries, departments and agencies.
Before joining the President’s delivery unit, Owalo served as Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communication and the Digital Economy, a position in which he oversaw key digital transformation initiatives within government.
A seasoned technocrat and politician, Owalo has previously contested elective positions and remained active in national politics over the years.
His entry into the 2027 presidential race adds a new dimension to Kenya’s evolving political landscape, which is expected to intensify as more aspirants declare their intentions.
President Ruto has not yet commented on Owalo’s resignation or presidential bid.
