Kisii’s political and professional leadership Monday convened an urgent meeting in Nairobi to deliberate on key issues affecting the region.
The meeting, organised by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos, brought together lawmakers from both the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) in the wake of a political pact that has sparked mixed reactions across the region.
A major concern during the meeting came from South Mugirango MP and National Assembly Chief Whip Silvanus Osoro, who voiced his disquiet over what he described as marginalisation of the community in the unfolding political events.
Osoro pointed to Sunday’s hostile reception of ODM leader Raila Odinga at Gusii Stadium as a clear indication of the community’s discontent.
According to Osoro, the community was sending a strong political message through the incident. He further emphasized that the Gusii region would not support any political deals that leave them out.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, who also spoke at the event, distanced himself from the disruptions at Gusii Stadium.
He strongly denied allegations that he had sponsored the rowdy youth who had heckled and disrupted the meeting during Raila Odinga’s visit.
Onyonka clarified that while he criticises national government matters, he has never been “anti-government.”
The leaders sharply differed over the performance of the Kenya Kwanza government, citing the ongoing tensions caused by the Kisii-Transmara border dispute. They challenged the government to find an urgent, long-lasting solution.
Kisii County has long been considered a stronghold for ODM leader Raila Odinga, with substantial support in past elections.
President Ruto has dismissed speculations that the deal is centred on sharing political positions.
Additional reporting by Joseph Wakhungu
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