Amos Khaemba, working for .co.ke as a journalist, brings more than four years of expertise in reporting on politics and contemporary issues in Kenya.
Nairobi
Nyaribari Masaba, a Member of Parliament for the Masaba constituency, has suggested that the Gusii community might distance itself from ODM leader Raila Odinga as the 2027 General Election approaches.
What has caused Daniel Manduku’s dissatisfaction with Raila Odinga?
During an appearance on Citizen TV on Wednesday, March 12, he accused the ex-prime minister of neglecting the Gusii community.
He asserted that his community hasn’t seen any advantages from Raila’s recent closeness with the Kenya Kwanza administration, even though the area is considered a strong hold of the ODM party leader.
Manduku stated that the Kisii area will not readily endorse Raila’s fresh agreement with President William Ruto.
“Legally speaking, things may differ from reality. In the past two and a half years, the Gusii community seems to have been left out unfairly. This new setup should ideally foster a feeling of national identity among our people and provide benefits from the current administration. However, if fair—capital F—resource distribution and representation for the Gusii aren’t ensured, then perhaps this isn’t meant for us,” stated Manduku.
Manduku stated that the recently agreed upon pact between Ruto and Raila ought to advantage the Kisii population regarding positions and distribution of resources.
He warned that he would mobilize his community to leave the ODM party if their concerns were not addressed by the ex-prime minister.
Manduku alleged that the ODM leader has been favoring the Luo Nyanza region in governmental appointments, thereby neglecting the Gusii community.
“If our expectations aren’t fulfilled, we will request our supporters to withdraw from any ODM agreement… Politics revolves around interests, and my primary interest lies with my constituents. As I’ve mentioned previously, we’re displeased that the limited roles available were exclusively offered to Lua Nyanza. This stance is documented, and I stand by it without hesitation. Nonetheless, what we propose is giving this situation another opportunity,” asserted the ODM legislator.
More to follow…
