By Hon.Sammy Weya
It is becoming increasingly disturbing to witness the reckless and divisive political rhetoric being promoted by some leaders within Luo Nyanza at a time when unity, sobriety, and mature leadership are most needed.
Governors Gladys Wanga and Ochilo Ayacko must remember that their political rise and electoral success were significantly anchored on the support, influence, and leadership of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga and the ODM movement. It is therefore unfortunate that instead of providing calm and unifying leadership during this delicate transition period, they are increasingly engaging in careless political attacks and disrespectful commentary directed at fellow senior leaders from the region.
The manner in which some of these statements have been made against respected leaders such as Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o and Governor James Orengo lacks decorum, maturity, and political wisdom. These are nationally respected leaders who have served this country with distinction over many decades. Whether one agrees with them or not, they deserve respect because of their contribution to Kenya’s democratic struggle, governance, and public service.
What is even more disappointing is the growing perception that certain leaders are becoming overly excited by proximity to the current administration and possible political promises from the UDA government. This excitement should not blind them into undermining fellow ODM leaders or creating unnecessary divisions among our people.
At a moment when ODM supporters across the country are still trying to regain political direction and emotional stability following the loss of Raila Odinga’s active leadership presence, the last thing Luo Nyanza needs is internal hostility, chest-thumping, and public insults among leaders. Such behavior only weakens the unity that ODM has carefully built over many years.
Prof. Nyong’o and Governor Orengo have remained measured, restrained, and professional despite repeated provocations. Their conduct demonstrates political maturity and experience. Younger leaders should learn from that example instead of engaging in unnecessary political theatrics that risk damaging the cohesion of the region.
As a people, we have always been strongest when united under shared ideals of justice, equality, and collective progress as championed by ODM and Raila Odinga. Personal ambitions, political excitement, and short-term alignments should never come before the unity and dignity of our community.
If this careless politics continues unchecked, the consequences could be severe. We risk entering the next electoral dispensation divided, weakened, and directionless. History has shown that divided movements rarely succeed.
This is therefore a call for restraint, humility, mutual respect, and unity among all ODM leaders and supporters. The people expect leadership, not division. They expect wisdom, not recklessness. And above all, they expect leaders who can rise above personal interests for the greater good of the community and the nation.
Former M.P. Alego Usonga
