A section of Kisumu residents has denounced divisive politics, pledging to work closely with President William Ruto’s administration despite the recent loss of Raila Odinga in the African Union Commission (AUC) elections.
Speaking in the lakeside city on Saturday, George Okwach emphasized that Raila’s defeat would not shake their commitment to national unity, lauding President Ruto for his unwavering support of Odinga’s candidacy.
“As Baba’s supporters, we are not happy with the outcome, but we appreciate President Ruto’s efforts,” Okwach said. “His steadfastness proves he is a dependable leader.”
He further recalled how Ruto stood by Raila in the 2007 elections, helping him secure the position of Kenya’s second Prime Minister. Even after the 2022 General Election, Okwach noted, Ruto included Raila’s allies in his government to promote inclusivity.
However, Okwach expressed concern over celebrations in parts of Mt. Kenya following Raila’s AUC loss, saying it rekindled historical political tensions.
“We remember how Jaramogi Oginga Odinga was pushed out of government after independence, despite his sacrifices for Jomo Kenyatta. The same happened in 1992, 2007, and now with Raila,” he said.
Austin Ochieng, a boda boda operator, said the Luo community had learned a tough lesson and would no longer be used to fight political battles on behalf of others.
“As a community, we will now stand with President Ruto in appreciation of his support for Raila’s AUC bid,” Ochieng declared.
Mary Ajwang, a trader, criticized those who celebrated Raila’s loss, arguing that the AUC race was a national contest, not a personal battle.
“In any competition, there’s a winner and a loser, but we have taken note of those who celebrated Baba’s downfall,” she warned.
The residents urged President Ruto to prioritize development projects in the region, with a special focus on fish farming in Kabonyo Kanyagwal.
