Residents of Kisumu have called on Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga to broaden his consultations as he moves to formalize his working relationship with President William Ruto’s government.
Speaking to the press on Sunday, they assured Raila of their unwavering support in his bid to unite the nation but urged him to engage a wider audience beyond ODM.
Job Mandela, a Kisumu resident, emphasized the need for Raila to reach out to religious groups, civil society, and the youth, arguing that the dialogue should not be limited to his party alone.
“Raila is consulting on our behalf, and we support the initiative. However, he must engage more stakeholders to strengthen this process,” said Mandela.
Mandela also cautioned against political intimidation, urging Raila to stay focused on fostering ties with the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“Let no ODM politician derail this process. We want it finalized quickly so we can formally integrate into the government,” he added.
He also warned Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against interfering with Raila’s strategy.
Meanwhile, Joe Obuya advised Raila to remain cautious of political deception, recalling past betrayals.
“That carrot being dangled in front of you is laced with poison. We remember how you were played in 2002,” he said, warning against distractions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Obuya reaffirmed that Raila has the backing of the over six million Kenyans who voted for him in 2022 and should negotiate with Ruto from a position of strength. However, he insisted that the government must prioritize service delivery.
“When Raila joined former President Mwai Kibaki, their collaboration yielded results. That’s what we expect if he formalizes his pact with Ruto,” he stated.
Lilian Onyango, a Kisumu businesswoman, echoed the sentiment, saying residents are eager to see a formalized agreement that could bring stability.
“We want peace, and this political alliance will spare Kisumu from the endless demonstrations that cause destruction and loss of lives,” she said.
Raila has recently been consulting stakeholders across the Nyanza region as he weighs his next political move.
