Tensions are rising in Luo Nyanza following the passing of former Prime Minister and long-serving opposition leader Hon. Raila Odinga three weeks ago. The region, long considered a political stronghold of Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), is witnessing unusual political realignments as some leaders publicly declare support for President William Ruto’s administration.
Finance Cabinet Secretary Hon. John Mbadi and his counterpart in the Ministry of Public Service, Opiyo Wandayi, have been at the forefront urging residents of Luo Nyanza to rally behind President Ruto’s re-election bid.
The two leaders argue that continued cooperation with the Kenya Kwanza government would guarantee the region sustained development and inclusion in national projects.
However, their remarks have sparked outrage among some local leaders and clergy. Over the weekend, Rt. Rev. Charles Ong’injo, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Maseno South, sharply criticized the two Cabinet Secretaries for what he termed as “lecturing” the community into political submission.
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Speaking during a Sunday service in Kisumu, Bishop Ong’injo accused the two leaders of abandoning the people who elevated them to national positions and failing to deliver meaningful change in Luo Nyanza. He questioned their performance in office, saying they have little to show for their appointments.
“Let them stop telling us to support Ruto for two terms,” the Bishop said. “They have not delivered anything tangible to the people of Luo Nyanza. Before asking for votes, they should first show us results.”
Bishop Ong’injo further condemned the Kenya Kwanza administration for what he called a disregard for human life, alleging that many Kenyans have lost their lives due to government excesses without justice or compensation for their families.
He also dismissed the notion that the State funeral accorded to Raila Odinga should automatically translate into political loyalty to President Ruto, insisting that genuine support must be earned through visible development and respect for citizens’ rights.
“Honoring Raila with a State funeral is not enough reason to demand blind support,” he added. “Our people want development, jobs, and justice — not empty promises.”
The Bishop’s remarks reflect growing discontent among sections of the clergy and community leaders who view the recent pro-Ruto campaigns as opportunistic and insensitive, especially in the wake of Raila Odinga’s passing.
As Luo Nyanza grapples with shifting political dynamics, the region remains divided on whether to embrace a new alliance with President Ruto or uphold Raila Odinga’s enduring legacy of opposition politics.
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