Residents of Kisumu East have welcomed President William Ruto’s nomination of Mrs. Claris Awuor Onganga as Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), hailing it as a milestone in inclusivity and national recognition of the region.
Speaking on Monday, Eudia Ochieng, on behalf of residents, thanked the President for what she described as a historic appointment.
“We, the citizens of Kisumu County, express our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto for honouring our county through the nomination of Mrs. Claris Awuor Onganga,” Ochieng said. “This recognition brings immense pride to Kisumu East, Kisumu County, and the entire Nyanza region, affirming that dedication and talent are rewarded at the highest level of leadership.”
She said Onganga’s long-standing career in law and human rights advocacy placed her in a strong position to strengthen the commission.
“Her appointment reflects the spirit of inclusivity and unity embraced by the broad-based government, ensuring every community feels represented in Kenya’s journey of progress,” she added.
David Olima, another resident, echoed the sentiments, saying the community had long felt excluded from national appointments.
“We appreciate Dr. William Ruto for what he did for Kisumu County. We’ve been lagging behind in these appointments, and we are happy as a community that at least we now have something to share at the table,” Olima said. “With her expertise, we are very sure that Onganga will do a great job for this nation.”
Maurice Oula, the acting ODM chairman in Kisumu East, described the nomination as proof of the inclusivity agenda.
“We are happy with the broad-based government. As Kisumu East, we are fully behind this government and we are going nowhere,” Oula said. “We have gained a lot in this government, including powerful positions in the ministries of Energy and Interior. We are here to stay.”
Jane Manuche, a women’s leader, pledged continued support while maintaining that the community still looks up to ODM leader Raila Odinga for political direction.
“We will support this government up to 2027, where our leader Raila Odinga will give us guidance. But all in all, we are happy for Onganga’s appointment, and we thank the broad-based government,” Manuche said.
If approved by Parliament, Onganga will take over the KNCHR chairmanship, a position tasked with defending justice and human rights across the country.
