A popular Kisumu politician has urged residents to remain calm and maintain peace following violent clashes reported at Kibuye Market on Monday.
Addressing the media outside the Winam Law Courts on Tuesday, Nyaori Nyang called on police officers in Kisumu to provide adequate security and avoid taking sides during arrests. He also cautioned politicians he accused of fueling the unrest, urging them to treat Kibuye Market chairlady Judith Matengo, widely known as Nyaramba, with respect, noting that she commands massive support in Kisumu.
“The organizers of the harambee need to understand that Nyaramba has many supporters following her politically,” Nyaori said.
His remarks come after Matengo was arrested by DCI officers on Monday and arraigned in Winam Court following the fracas, where she allegedly attacked a fellow businesswoman with a long rod, injuring two people. Nyaori said they respect the court’s decision to deny bail and remand her until Monday.
“We will accept the court’s decision, but we will be here, and we know the court will grant us bail on Monday,” he stated.
Nyaori further declared unwavering support for President William Ruto’s re-election bid, insisting the Luo community remains part of the broad-based government established with the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s involvement.
He dismissed opposition voices, particularly those allied to former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, saying their group will not engage with them politically.
Nyaori also endorsed former Kisumu Central MP Ken Obura’s gubernatorial bid, terming him the most suitable successor to Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, who is serving his final term.
“I want to state categorically that our support for President Ruto is not negotiable. We shall not pass through anybody when negotiating with the President because what he has done is evident in Kisumu,” he said. “We are in the broad-based government, and we do not want anything to do with Gachagua and his team. We will rally behind Ken Obura as the next Kisumu governor. President Ruto and Ken Obura are going to be elected in 2027.”
Nyaori, who defected to Obura’s camp after falling out with Kisumu Central MP Dr Joshua Oron, said they will conduct peaceful campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election and will not engage in political confrontations that may trigger violence or property destruction.
