ODM in Kisii: A Critical Moment for Raila as the Gusii Region Takes a Different Path

BY ERIC ABUGA

The Abagusii people remember with pride the courage, resilience, and industriousness of their ancestors, who safeguarded the community’s heritage, cultivated their lands, built strong families, and handed down a legacy of hard work, unity, and cultural identity to future generations. 

The greatest strength of the community lies in its solidarity; only by speaking with one voice can they command respect, secure representation, and guarantee a fair share in the governance and prosperity of Kenya. 

In the past, politics driven by self-interest, division, and opportunism have weakened the community's collective voice, denying its people their rightful share in national affairs. 

With nearly one million registered voters, the Omogusi community stands as one of the most significant political constituencies in Kenya.

The Gusii community is beginning to recognize that some politicians’ overtures may be motivated more by selfish ambitions than by genuine concerns for the welfare of the community. 
Raila Odinga’s planned visit to Kisii on Friday has sparked criticism, with some viewing it as a strategic effort to regain lost ground. 

It is now the responsibility of Raila and other presidential hopefuls in the country to show a true commitment to inclusive development and a willingness to work toward the betterment of all Kenyans, regardless of their tribe or region. 

There is a clear sentiment among the Abagusii that they are embarking on a new political journey; the perception that their votes are merely swing votes could just be that. The upcoming decisions from the Gusii region may be momentous. 

This unprecedented situation is causing concern among the country’s top leaders. The political dynamics in Kisii serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in Kenyan politics, including a lack of accountability and false promises. 

For nearly three decades, the Abagusii have cautiously played a long game to protect their most important asset: their investments. 

The Gusii region feels politically aggrieved, as several leaders have voiced concerns about being excluded from the distribution of national resources. 

Raila Odinga's party, ODM, has been accused of securing Ministerial positions for its allies while neglecting Kisii, which he claims is his stronghold. This situation underscores the persistent issue self-serving politics in the country. 

The Gusii community’s support for Raila may be dwindling as they seek to realign themselves politically—a looming shift in the first term of the Kenya Kwanza regime. 

Leaders from the Gusii region who have previously hesitated to part ways with Raila are starting to awaken to the reality of pursuing their own aspirations. Any attempts to seek support from the community that feels marginalized could further damage an already fragile political base. 

Sources within ODM indicate that the party may lose out on three by-elections in Nyamira County due to a growing divide among its Gusii leadership. Elected leaders from both Kisii and Nyamira have already pledged their support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i. 

Senators Richard Onyonka of Kisii and Okongo Omogeni of Nyamira are actively promoting Matiang’i’s campaign both within and outside the Gusii region. Additionally, Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo, Nyaribari Masaba's Dr. Daniel Manduku, and Kitutu Chache South’s Anthony Kibagendi have openly declared their support for Matiang’i.

The allocation of billions of shillings to counties in his stronghold—namely Homa Bay, Migori, Kisumu, and Siaya—raises concerns about ODM's alleged lack of commitment to equitable development.ad-based partner; ODM.

In his remarks last week, Kisii Governor Simba Arati said he is supporting President William Ruto for the community to gain economically, adding that he will seek Raila’s support to reach the President.

However, critics are asking how long the community will be to receive development, yet separation of power and the right to receive resources remains a constitutional right.