James Opiyo Wandayi, born on June 22, 1972, is a seasoned Kenyan politician and agricultural and development economist.
He is currently the Cabinet Secretary nominee for Energy and Petroleum, having been nominated by President William Ruto in July 2024.
Wandayi's political career has been marked by his tenure as the Member of Parliament for Ugunja Constituency in Siaya County and his role as the Minority Leader in the National Assembly.
Education and Early Life
Wandayi's educational background includes;
1. Primary Education: Sikalame Primary School, completed in 1986.
2. Secondary Education: Sawagongo High School, completed in 1990.
3. Undergraduate: Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi.
4. Postgraduate: MBA Executive from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.
5. Additional Qualifications: Diploma in Business Management from the Kenya Institute of Management and currently pursuing an LLB at Daystar University.
Political Career
Wandayi is affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and has been an active political figure since his university days. His political career includes several notable moments;
Wandayi is affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and has been an active political figure since his university days. His political career includes several notable moments;
Parliamentary Representation: Elected as the Member of Parliament for Ugunja Constituency.
Leadership Role: Served as the Minority Leader in the National Assembly.
Political Activism: In 2016, Wandayi was suspended from Parliament for disrupting President Uhuru Kenyatta’s State of the Nation address by blowing a whistle. He was later reinstated by the High Court, which ruled that his suspension was unjust.
Cabinet Appointment
In July 2024, President William Ruto nominated Wandayi as the Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum. This nomination was part of Ruto’s broader strategy to form a government that includes allies from different political backgrounds, including those of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Honors and Recognition
Throughout his career, Wandayi has received several honors, including;
Moran of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (MGH)
Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS).
Wandayi's appointment reflects his extensive experience in public service and his significant influence within the Kenyan political landscape.
