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ODM Gears Up for 2027 Presidential Race with Renewed Strategies and Grassroots Reforms

November 28, 2024

ODM to election officials verifies details of the party national chairperson Gladys Wanga before participating in the grassroots polls at Alara Korayo primary school in Kochia,Rangwe constituency on November 27,2024

By Reporter

The ODM party is preparing to fight in the 2027 presidential election following the successful completion of its grassroots elections.

National Chairperson Gladys Wanga stated that the party is repositioning itself for the future and strengthening its structures.

“The turnout by party members to participate in the exercise signifies that ODM is still popular compared to other political parties across the country,” said Wanga.

According to Wanga, the grassroots polls were part of the party’s strategy to build its foundation and enhance readiness for the 2027 general election, with the ultimate goal of clinching the presidency.

ODM has participated in four general elections, with its leader Raila Odinga on the presidential ballot in each instance. Despite not securing the presidency in the past, Wanga expressed confidence in the party’s renewed approach.

“The grassroots polls were done with the sole objective of ODM capturing power in 2027. Maturity has been demonstrated after members participated in a peaceful exercise,” she said.

Speaking at Alara Korayo Primary School in Kochia, Rangwe Constituency, after participating in the elections, Wanga declared that ODM is destined to form the next government.

She revealed that the party is going back to the drawing board to devise feasible strategies aimed at securing victory in 2027.

“We are coming up with new strategies to capture power in the forthcoming general election,” Wanga announced.

She urged party officials to revitalise the party and make it more vibrant and appealing to voters to ensure success in the next polls.

Wanga emphasised that ODM is addressing the irregularities that have previously marred internal elections.

The Homa Bay governor hinted at the possibility of ODM forming a coalition with other political parties but noted that such discussions would take place at a later stage.

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Kuria Residents Applaud Creation of New Administrative Units to Boost Local Governance and Development

November 28, 2024

By Reporter

Residents of Kuria East and West in Migori County have expressed their deep gratitude to the government for the creation of 22 new administrative units in the region.

Led by their MP, Marwa Kitayama, they specifically thanked President William Ruto, Deputy President and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Kithure Kindiki, and PS Interior Dr Omollo, who had made the promise to expand administrative units. They also acknowledged Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi for gazetting 578 new administrative units across Kenya, including 27 sub-counties, 59 divisions, 170 locations, and 322 sub-locations.

Kuria East gained 16 new units and West received 6, making them the largest beneficiaries in the county. Other constituencies in the county were allocated between 3 to 5 new units.

Kitayama highlighted that the establishment of these new units would enhance local economic opportunities and decentralise the distribution of services, benefiting both residents and the wider community.

The people of Kuria East, along with other regions benefiting from the initiative, expressed their heartfelt appreciation, recognising the government’s commitment to improving service delivery and creating wealth through better resource allocation.

Other counties, including Kisumu, Siaya, and Homa Bay, also celebrated the creation of additional administrative units. Nyando MP Jared Okello welcomed the establishment of the Kadibo division.

“These administrative units will enhance service delivery to our people, and we thank the state for delineating new boundaries,” said Okello.

Kennedy Ongati, a resident of Homa Bay, noted that the new devolved units would spur economic growth in rural communities.

Kuria residents acknowledged President Ruto’s leadership in this transformative initiative, expressing their gratitude.

Kitayama emphasised that the creation of the new administrative units would significantly accelerate economic growth at the village level. He encouraged residents to fully embrace the benefits of these developments by actively participating in local economic activities.

Kitayama further urged the community to reciprocate their appreciation for the government’s efforts during the 2027 general elections by supporting leaders who have worked to improve livelihoods and foster regional progress.

Kuria West MP Mathias Robi underscored the importance of creating new administrative units, noting their role in governance, resource allocation, and regional development.

“As Kenya approaches the next boundaries review by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the focus on creating new administrative units becomes even more critical,” said Kitayama.

Okello echoed Kitayama’s sentiments, highlighting how new administrative units in regions with large populations or vast geographic areas bring services closer to the people.

“Local governments can better cater to the unique needs of their communities, whether in education, healthcare, infrastructure, or security,” said Okello.

Kitayama also explained the broader benefits of redrawing boundaries, such as promoting balanced development across the country and addressing historical marginalisation.

“New administrative units will ensure that resources are allocated more fairly, especially to historically marginalised or less developed areas,” said Kitayama.

He observed that smaller administrative units allow for targeted development projects, improving infrastructure, public services, and overall living conditions.

Kitayama noted that these units would promote social cohesion and political stability, ensuring adequate representation for minority groups and addressing ethnic tensions.

“By balancing population sizes and ensuring fair representation, new boundaries can reduce dominance by a single ethnic group in certain areas, which has been a source of political conflict,” he explained.

Kitayama also pointed out that well-defined constituencies foster stronger voter engagement and fairer elections.

“People feel a stronger connection to their local representatives, increasing voter turnout and the legitimacy of elections,” he said.

Redrawing boundaries reflects current population sizes and demographics, reducing voter irregularities and gerrymandering while ensuring a more democratic electoral process.

“By addressing areas with low voter registration or participation, new administrative units can ensure that all eligible citizens are included in the voting process,” added Kitayama.

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Ruth Odinga Calls for Active Oversight Role by MCAs

November 28, 2024

By Reporter

Kisumu County Member of Parliament, Ruth Odinga, has urged Members of County Assemblies (MCAs) to actively fulfil their oversight responsibilities.

She criticised some MCAs for aligning too closely with the Executive, thereby neglecting their crucial role in holding governors accountable.

Ruth also pointed out that some MCAs are preoccupied with campaigning for higher political positions, such as MPs or Senate seats, which further detracts from their primary oversight duties.

Ruth emphasised the importance of MCAs in ensuring that governors are accountable for the projects they undertake with the Sh8 to Sh9 billion allocated to counties each financial year.

She stressed that effective oversight is essential for transparency and good governance and that MCAs must prioritise their responsibilities to the public over personal political ambitions.

Her call to action highlights the need for MCAs to remain vigilant and dedicated to their roles in order to ensure that county governments operate efficiently and in the best interests of the citizens.

She spoke at Kibuye Catholic Church in Kisumu.

Ruth emphasised the importance of MCAs fulfilling their oversight responsibilities.

She questioned how they could effectively oversee the state and hold it to account if elected to Parliament or improve governance in counties if elected to the Senate, given their current performance.

Ruth stressed that MCAs must hold governors accountable for the projects they undertake with the billions allocated to counties each financial year.

This accountability is crucial for ensuring transparency and good governance, and MCAs must prioritise their oversight role to serve the public effectively.

Ruth also criticised some MCAs for forgetting their primary oversight roles and instead turning into “sangwenya,” a term used to describe party youth who chase after wealthy politicians for personal gain.

She emphasised that this behaviour undermines their moral tenets and responsibility to hold governors accountable and ensure that the allocated funds are used effectively for the benefit of the public.

Ruth’s call to action highlights the need for MCAs to prioritise their duties and maintain integrity in their roles.

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Diaspora Investment Conference will focus on skills transfer and labour migration.

November 28, 2024

By Reporter

An investment conference slated for next month will focus on skills transfer and labour migration of Kenyans.

The conference seeks to host Kenyans living abroad and investors from various sectors of the economy.

The annual investment meeting organised by the Kenya Diaspora Alliance will this year explore the opportunities that lie abroad for Kenyans seeking greener pastures outside the country.

The Kenya Diaspora Alliance Chairman, Dr Shem Ochuodho, on Monday, said this year’s meeting comes at an opportune time when the government was grappling with the idea of exporting labour abroad; hence, knowing the set skills needed outside the country is valuable.

“There is a pressing need for countries, especially developing nations like Kenya, to adapt and evolve to ensure resilience, sustainability, and economic prosperity. The Kenyan diaspora, with its diverse wealth of knowledge, skills, and networks, plays a pivotal role in this transformation,” said Ochuodho.

To harness the skills and knowledge of the Kenyan diaspora for technology exchange, technical assistance, career upgrades, and economic resilience, Dr Ochuodho said the hybrid meeting will also aim at promoting climate resilience and sustainability in the development of Kenya by leveraging technology and innovation.

“To explore avenues for economic transformation and growth for prosperity through diaspora engagement and investment, we are aiming to foster collaboration and exchange between and among the diaspora, academia, research, professionals, government, private sector, and civil society,” added Dr Ochuodho.

The 11th Annual Kenya Diaspora Homecoming Convention is scheduled for December 9 to 11 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi.

The diaspora lobby noted that Kenyans in the diaspora have been at the forefront of Foreign Direct Investments in Kenya, with them remitting a whopping USD 4.19 billion (KES 670 billion) in 2023. This sum is expected to increase in the coming years as they learn of more ways to invest in the country.

“The Convention aims to bring together a host of government leaders and representatives, private sector leaders, civil society specialists, business entrepreneurs, academics, and students all focused on contributing to the Kenyan economy.”

The Convention aims to culminate in a comprehensive action plan that outlines clear strategies and initiatives for harnessing the potential of the Kenyan diaspora in driving resilience and growth in the 5th Industrial Era.

According to its organisers, a commitment to ongoing and deepened collaboration and engagement among all stakeholders will be emphasised.

Sessions will explore how diasporans can leverage their knowledge, skills, prowess, and experience to accelerate technology transfer, upgrade their careers, and contribute to building a resilient Kenyan workforce ready to tackle the challenges and harness opportunities of the 5th Industrial Era.

“The session will also focus on manufacturing of key elements, especially in the agro-processing, extractive, and semiconductor industries for the success of the 5th Industrial Era,” Ochuodho added.

According to the organisers, with the notably escalating impacts of climate change, discussions will delve into sustainable practices, renewable energy, and green technologies that diasporans can introduce to Kenya. This segment aims to highlight innovative solutions for water conservation, agriculture, and urban planning. It shall also explore climate finance, carbon trading, climate mitigation, as well as adaptation. Participants will interact with new laws and regulations, both at national and county levels.

Tech-novation sessions will showcase the latest technological advancements and innovative solutions that can drive and accelerate Kenya’s development and transformation.

Topics will include artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), coding, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, cloud computing, e-commerce, fintech, and cybersecurity, with a focus on how these can be utilised for social and economic transformation.

The conference comes at a time when the government is set to roll out a major labour recruitment drive starting 18 November through to 6 December, aimed at connecting Kenyans with job opportunities abroad.

The announcement was made following a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, which unveiled a list of countries where Kenyans will be seeking employment.

These include Germany, Austria, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Northern Ireland, in addition to Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, and Kuwait.

According to a Cabinet dispatch, the Ministry of Labour will be holding recruitment drives in every county during the designated period.

The jobs on offer will cover a broad spectrum of professional, skilled, and unskilled positions, including nurses, aged-care workers, and teachers in critical subjects like science, mathematics, English, and physical education.

“At the meeting, the Cabinet was informed that the Ministry of Labour has organised job recruitment drives in every county over the coming weeks,” the dispatch stated in part.

“These recruitment efforts are part of a broader strategy to connect Kenyans with employment opportunities both within the region and globally.”

The briefing also highlighted the success of Kenya’s ongoing labour export programme.

Since July 2023, a total of 105,367 Kenyans have secured jobs abroad, with 16,943 people cleared for employment since January 2024 alone, according to the government.

President William Ruto has been vocal about increasing Kenyan labour exports as part of the government’s broader economic strategy.

In June, he revealed that the country has been sending 1,000 skilled and semi-skilled workers overseas every week.

Mudavadi Graces Diplomatic Golf Tournament Celebrating Kenya’s 60 Years of Diplomacy

November 27, 2024

By OPCS Press Service in Nairobi.
27 November 2024

Mudavadi Leads Golf Tournament Marking Kenya’s 60 Years of Diplomacy

Despite the demanding responsibilities of his role as Prime Cabinet Secretary and his leadership of three significant ministries, H.E. Dr Musalia Mudavadi actively participated in an 18-hole diplomatic golf tournament at the Royal Nairobi Golf Club. The event, involving a 12-kilometre walk, was organised to commemorate Kenya’s 60 years of diplomacy, celebrating the nation’s achievements on the global stage.

As the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Mudavadi underscored the unique role of sports, particularly golf, in uniting people and enhancing international connections. “Golf is not just a game; it serves as a powerful platform to bring people together, strengthen bonds, and build lasting partnerships,” he stated.

The tournament drew participants from various sectors, including Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff, members of the diplomatic corps, and corporate leaders, reflecting Kenya’s commitment to inclusive diplomacy. Mudavadi commended the diverse gathering for their role in marking Kenya’s diplomatic milestones.

“Your presence here today reflects our shared commitment to Kenya’s growth, unity, and success on the global stage,” he remarked.

Among the notable attendees were Thomas Bisonga, Executive Head of the Public Sector at Stanbic Bank; Evans Lagat, Honorary Secretary of the Royal Nairobi Golf Club; and Jeff Kubo, the Club Pro. Their participation emphasised the significance of collaboration between public, private, and diplomatic sectors in advancing Kenya’s international interests.

Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s dedication to expanding Kenya’s global influence. “As we celebrate 60 years of diplomacy, we remain dedicated to leveraging platforms like these to foster partnerships and promote Kenya’s values worldwide,” he concluded.

The tournament formed part of the broader Diplomacy at 60 celebrations, which highlight Kenya’s accomplishments in diplomacy, sports, and international cooperation. The event also served to promote unity and friendship across borders, showcasing the nation’s commitment to building stronger global connections.

ENDS

Poverty leading cause of gender-based violence in Homa Bay County

November 27, 2024

Homa-Bay-gender-activists-when-they-launched-the-16-days-of-gender-activism-at-Kisui-in-Suba-North-constituencyHoma-Bay-county

by Reporter

Poverty remains one of the leading causes of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Homa Bay, according to the county’s Chief Officer for Gender, Dolphin Ochere.

Ochere revealed that assessment reports from her department indicate that many family conflicts stem from a lack of economic empowerment. “Homa Bay gender department report lists poverty as one of the leading causes of conflicts among families. Family members, especially couples, disagree and fight even on a small scale due to lack of economic empowerment,” she explained.

Statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) place Homa Bay among the counties in Western Kenya with a high poverty index. Currently, the county’s poverty index stands at 48.4 percent. Ochere pointed out that poverty often leads to frustrations, especially among men, who may become indignant over minor disagreements.

Some of the reported forms of GBV include physical assault, verbal abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of violence.

Speaking during the launch of this year’s 16 Days of Gender Activism campaign at Kisui in Suba North constituency, Ochere highlighted initiatives by the county government to address GBV. These include male involvement programmes, sensitisation campaigns, sports tournaments, and the drafting of a GBV policy. “We’ve increased sensitisation activities for family members to know and understand the importance of peaceful coexistence. There is a need for everyone to get protected in their families,” she said.

Esther Soti, the executive director of Development Link Knowledge Africa (DEVLINK), called for collective efforts to combat GBV in Homa Bay. She expressed concern over the rising cases of sexual violence, including defilement and rape, as well as an increase in femicide.

Soti stressed the importance of stakeholders working together to eradicate practices that fuel GBV. “There is a need for collective responsibility if we truly want to win the fight against GBV in society. We must discard cultural practices that suppress one gender over the other,” she urged.

Physical violence prevalence in Homa Bay currently stands at 54.6 percent, while sexual violence is at 23 percent.

During the launch, Homa Bay Members of County Assembly (MCAs), Pauline Omogi (nominated) and Tom Raila (Mfang’ano), advocated for the establishment of safe spaces for GBV survivors.

Omogi encouraged individuals, particularly couples experiencing conflicts, to seek refuge in safe spaces such as churches, police stations, or rescue centres. “If someone feels threatened in the family, you’re allowed to run away to avoid being harmed. We should foster peace in every place we live,” she advised.

Raila reiterated the MCAs’ commitment to approving legislation that will ensure the eradication of GBV. “We are ready to support and approve bills aimed at tackling GBV and protecting vulnerable members of society,” he assured.

As awareness campaigns continue, the focus remains on fostering peaceful coexistence and tackling the root causes of GBV, with poverty and harmful cultural practices at the forefront of the fight.

The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties Must Champion Competence in Political Party Governance

November 27, 2024

By Billy Mijungu

The dysfunction within Kenya’s political parties and its spillover effects on public service can no longer be ignored. Political parties are meant to be the breeding grounds for leadership, governance, and policy-making, yet they have devolved into chaotic entities often marred by incompetence and cronyism. The result is a public service riddled with politically appointed individuals who lack the skills or knowledge to fulfil their roles effectively, undermining the very essence of governance.

This problem can and must be addressed by introducing a mandatory Diploma in Political Party Administration, with the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) tasked with ensuring its implementation. As the regulatory body overseeing political parties, the ORPP is best placed to enforce the professionalisation of party management and ensure that parties are run by competent, trained individuals.

The diploma, to be offered at the Kenya School of Government (KSG), would be tailored to equip political party officials with essential skills in governance, public administration, ethics, and policy-making. This would not only improve the internal functioning of political parties but also ensure that appointees to public office, drawn from these parties, have a basic understanding of governance. The ORPP should work closely with KSG and other stakeholders to design a comprehensive curriculum that reflects the unique challenges facing Kenya’s political system.

Political parties, as the primary vehicles for leadership development, have a direct impact on the quality of governance. “When unqualified individuals are placed in key public positions through political appointments, it disrupts the civil service and erodes public trust in government institutions,” a statement that highlights the urgent need for reform. This diploma would address this problem by professionalising political party management and ensuring that only trained individuals can hold official party positions.

The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties must take the lead in institutionalising this requirement. As the custodian of political party regulations, the ORPP should mandate that all political party officials, including chairpersons, secretaries-general, and treasurers, hold this diploma as a minimum qualification. “It should also monitor compliance and penalise parties that fail to meet this standard,” an action that would mark a significant step toward transforming political parties into credible institutions that contribute meaningfully to national development.

Moreover, the diploma program would instil a culture of accountability and integrity within political parties. “It would ensure that political party officials understand the distinction between party politics and public service, reducing the interference and politicisation that have plagued the civil service,” a move necessary to restore trust. By setting a high bar for competence and professionalism, the ORPP would help rebuild public confidence in political parties and the broader governance framework.

This proposal aligns perfectly with the ORPP’s mandate to promote the institutionalisation of political parties. By championing this initiative, the ORPP would cement its role as a key player in governance reform and capacity building. “The government must support this effort by providing the necessary resources and policy backing to make the diploma a reality.”

Kenya’s political and public service landscape stands at a crossroads. The introduction of a Diploma in Political Party Administration, championed by the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties, offers a clear path toward a more competent, accountable, and professional political system. “It is a reform whose time has come, and the ORPP must rise to the occasion to ensure its successful implementation.”

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Can Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi Lead Kenya to Fiscal Responsibility?

November 27, 2024

By Billy Mijungu

Kenya is at a crossroads, grappling with economic challenges that demand bold leadership and decisive action. As Treasury Secretary, John Mbadi holds the power—and the responsibility—to steer the country towards fiscal discipline. This calls for tackling the glaring inefficiencies and waste synonymous with government operations.

A prime example is the wastefulness of parastatals. Out of over 350 parastatals in operation, three-quarters rent office spaces at exorbitant costs. Meanwhile, prime government-owned buildings are leased out to private entities for a fraction of their value. This paradox is a glaring mismanagement of resources. “Why should taxpayers fund inflated rents while government property remains underutilised?” Mbadi must take the lead in directing parastatals to relocate to government-owned buildings or renegotiate their leases to save billions annually. This is not just about economics—it is about fiscal responsibility and fairness.

Another area ripe for reform is healthcare insurance within government agencies. Senior staff and board members of parastatals currently enjoy private medical insurance schemes paid for by the National Treasury. Yet Kenya already has a robust Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), or Taifacare, designed to cater to public healthcare needs. “Why maintain parallel systems that only serve to drain public resources?” Mbadi should push for the retirement of all private medical insurance schemes for public officers. Consolidating these funds into SHIF would not only cut costs but also strengthen the national healthcare system, ensuring every Kenyan benefit from improved services.

The inefficiencies do not stop there. Government asset management, particularly in the disposal of movable assets, is a case study of wastefulness. Under the current bureaucratic policies, assets like vehicles and equipment often lose significant value while awaiting approval for disposal. This is a needless haemorrhaging of public funds. Mbadi must spearhead a reform of these policies, introducing an automated, streamlined system for asset acquisition and disposal. Such a move could save the government up to KES 100 billion annually—funds that could be redirected to critical development projects.

These reforms are not merely about cutting costs; they are about instilling a culture of fiscal and monetary responsibility in government. Mbadi’s role as Treasury Secretary places him at the helm of this mission. He must lead by example, demonstrating that fiscal discipline is not just a buzzword but a guiding principle.

To succeed, he will need the full support of the President and the courage to confront entrenched interests resistant to change. The waste in our government is not an accident—it is the product of a culture that prioritises personal gain over public good. Breaking this cycle will require bold action, and Mbadi must rise to the challenge.

Treasury Secretary John Mbadi has the opportunity to be remembered as the architect of Kenya’s financial turnaround. But he must act decisively—relocating parastatals to government buildings, consolidating healthcare funds under SHIF, and overhauling asset management policies. These changes could unlock billions in savings and redirect resources towards transforming lives.

The question now is whether Mbadi has the vision and resolve to make these reforms a reality. The solutions are clear, the benefits immense, and the stakes higher than ever. “It is time for action. Will Mbadi step up?”

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The battle of crowds as Kisumu responds to Muranga in Ruto-Rigathi tussle

November 27, 2024

By Anderson Ojwang

The Mountain erupted and exploded when the impeached Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, stormed Ihura Stadium in Muranga County at the weekend to a rousing welcome.

The villain became a hero as the mammoth crowd showered love on their new leader. It was an electrifying moment as the crowd and other leaders went wild. The smiling descendant of the Mau Mau movement walked stealthily to the podium to assume his new position with honour.

Murima (the Mountain) spoke loudly to President William Ruto: the marriage could be over, and Rigathi is our new leader. The crowd chanted, “Ruto must go!”

However, the rattled President didn’t take it lying down. He responded to the Mountain in style. On Tuesday, he landed in Kondele, the political barometer of Nyanza and the country—a region feared by politicians for its volatile and restive nature.

Successive leaders, including the founding President, the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, former Presidents the late Daniel Arap Moi, the late Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta, as well as former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and President Ruto himself, have all borne the brunt of Kondele’s infamous temperament.

President Ruto, however, received a rousing welcome in Kondele, sending a candid message to Murima about his newfound political base. It was a battle royale of crowds—Ihura Stadium versus the famous Kondele, often likened to “Darfur” for its intensity. The Kondele crowd didn’t disappoint, responding with the song, “Yote yawezekana bila Murima” (All is possible without the Mountain).

The excited President charmed the Kisumu residents with promises of development projects and other goodies. He urged them to reject tribal politics and embrace unity.

“I stood here in Kondele and said that one day I helped Agwambo (Raila) during the 2007 presidential election when I supported his candidature. This time, he has returned the favour and helped me. Is there a problem with that?”

He continued: “I said we would unite Kenyans to be one. The people propagating the gospel of tribalism, hatred, and division—we will show them the road to go home. I ask you, the people of Kisumu, do you agree that we unite the country to be one? Do you agree that we stop tribalism, hatred, and division? Should those propagating division walk home? Do you want Raila and me to continue working together? Currently, I am supporting Raila’s candidature, and his campaign in West Africa has been very successful.”

Meanwhile, in Muranga, Rigathi Gachagua spoke passionately, claiming that Parliament had been captured and that few leaders dared to speak for the people. He called on the church to take up the space and advocate against the ills in society.

“We depend on the church. The level of impunity in this country is at an all-time high,” Rigathi said.

He alleged that his fallout with President Ruto stemmed from disagreements over issues such as the Adani deal.

“At the Cabinet, I was the only one who could tell the President the truth. Others were cowards. Ministers would ask me to speak on their behalf because they feared. I told the President that the Adani deal was shady, riddled with corruption, and was auctioning our country and its people. He didn’t like it and started claiming I was against government projects. Is corruption a government project?”

Rigathi continued: “I was charged in the Senate for disrespecting the President because I opposed government projects. I want to ask President Ruto to take time to read John 8:31, which says, ‘You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’ He should listen to the people of Kenya. It is sad that it took intervention from the USA for him to act. When I met avocado farmers in Muranga, I was summoned and accused of propagating tribalism. Where is my sin?”

Rigathi criticised his successor, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, saying, “The person who has been appointed to my position cannot talk or act. I was the only one in Cabinet who opposed the finance bill, but Kenyans shut me down.”

Former Nyakach MP Pollyns Ochieng Daima said the heroic reception for President Ruto in Kisumu was telling, suggesting he could rely on Nyanza to anchor his 2027 presidential bid.

“The mammoth and electrifying crowd in Kisumu was a response to Muranga—a score for President Ruto. Rigathi’s crowd was on home turf. We are happy with the turnout by our people, and it’s a sign of a maturing democracy,” he said.

However, political analyst Michael Agwanda argued that the Muranga crowd was organic and spontaneous, driven by rebellion, while the Kondele crowd may have been orchestrated.“Ruto is looking to Kisumu as a safety net for the 2027 presidential contest. However, he has to work extra hard to win over other regions. Crowds can be deceptive,” he said

Ps Omollo gifts widows in kibiri ward with assorted households

November 26, 2024

By reporter

More than 40 widows in Kibiri Ward, Karachuonyo Constituency, have received assorted household items to improve their living standards within the community.

The Office of the Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary, Raymond Omollo, donated cooking gas, mattresses, and food items to the women on Tuesday.

His representative in the area, Kennedy Ongati, said they decided to assist the women after realising that most of them lacked these items and were living in indecent conditions.

According to Ongati, many of the women and their families had been cooking with firewood, sleeping on ragged mats, and facing food shortages.

They were selected from three locations: Kanyipir, Koyugi, and Wadhgone Nyonge.

“The assessment undertaken by the office revealed that the families where widows hail from were seriously suffering. Priority was given to the most vulnerable people,” Ongati said.

Speaking after distributing the items at their homes in Kanyipir, Ongati said they have also listed the widows’ children and plan to pay school fees for those in secondary schools.

Principal Secretary Omollo is running an ongoing programme to build houses for selected vulnerable widows.

Beneficiaries are chosen based on their level of vulnerability.

More than 20 women across Nyanza have had houses built for them under the programme.

Ongati stated that the focus is on creating a conducive environment for less fortunate families.

“Everybody wants to live a good life. We’re providing such an environment to make them healthy for continued productivity,” he said.

Some of the beneficiaries, led by Valarie Otieno and Jamila Amayo, expressed confidence that the programme would improve their health and protect them from shame.

Otieno said they have been sleeping more comfortably now that they have better bedding.

“The small mat could not even accommodate all my seven children. Some of them used to sleep in neighbouring houses,” Otieno said.

Amayo said the programme would transform the lives of the beneficiaries. She noted that improved living conditions would prevent diseases associated with poor environments.

“Many families which have benefited will not contract eye diseases and pneumonia. The project will improve their lives,” Amayo said.

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