The Luo Council of Elders has appealed to President William Ruto to urgently intervene and end recurring violence along the Kisumu–Kericho border, warning that continued skirmishes are costing innocent lives and threatening regional stability.
Speaking to the press at Ofafa Memorial Hall in Kisumu on Tuesday, March 17, the council’s chairman, Ker Odungi Randa, said the disputed land belongs to the Koguta community of Nyakach and urged the Head of State to facilitate dialogue with neighbouring communities to restore peace.
“I want to call upon President Ruto to talk to the Kipsigis community to stop attacking the Luos at the borders. The land in question belongs to people from Nyakach. The President should help us enforce peace within the dreaded borders of Kericho–Kisumu,” Ker Odungi said.
The elders’ plea comes days before President Ruto and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni are expected in Kisumu City on March 21 for the launch of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension, a high-profile event anticipated to draw large crowds.
Ker Odungi called on Kisumu residents to turn out in large numbers to welcome the two leaders, describing the visit as significant for the region’s development and cross-border cooperation.
At the same time, the council urged unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), cautioning against internal divisions. Ker Odungi described the party as the enduring political legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and warned against attempts to split it.
“Raila left us wealth ODM, which some people are now trying to divide. I have engaged leaders with differing opinions to remain within the party, but some continue to walk parallel paths. I urge everyone to stay where Raila left us,” he said.
The elders further called on the Luo community and ODM supporters to rally behind Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga, emphasising the need for cohesion within the party and the broader community.
In a separate appeal, Ker Odungi asked the Migori County Government, led by Governor Ochilo Ayacko, to rehabilitate the road leading to the home of the council’s Secretary-General, Owino Ombuor. He noted that poor infrastructure has hindered visits ahead of Ombuor’s burial scheduled for April 4.
The council warned that addressing security concerns, political unity, and infrastructure challenges is critical to preserving stability and dignity within the region.
