Kisii Governor Simba Arati recently voiced his frustration over the treatment of the Omogusii community in national politics, emphasizing the need for unity and a national leader to represent the interests of the region. Speaking during a gathering in Kisii on Sunday, Arati expressed that the community was ready to demand respect and a fair share of the national resources as part of its push for political recognition.
Arati’s remarks came at a time when the Gusii community is looking to fill the political void left by the late Mzee Simeon Nyachae, the long-serving leader and former Minister who held significant sway over the region’s political landscape until his death in 2021. “There comes a time when we miss the times of Mzee Nyachae, and I think we are going back there and there is nobody who will play with us,” Arati stated, signaling a call for unity and a renewed political presence for the community.
The Governor’s words reflect broader discussions among Gusii leaders who are pushing for stronger political cohesion. Arati’s statement also highlights the community’s intent to secure its rightful place in the national discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections, including the possibility of creating a common political party. This comes amid speculations about former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i possibly running for president, further fueling the debate on Gusii political strength.
Arati argued that the Omogusii community, with nearly 2 million votes spread across Kisii, Nyamira, and the diaspora, should not be overlooked by the government or other regions. He criticized what he termed as systemic neglect by the central government, especially when resources are being allocated. “There is a minister I heard saying that the money is for four Nyanza counties, isn’t Kisii and Nyamira not part of Nyanza?” Arati questioned, expressing frustration with the marginalization of his region.
While the identity of the Cabinet Secretary Arati was referring to remains unclear, the governor’s words underline a deeper concern within the Gusii community regarding the unequal distribution of resources and political opportunities. He argued that if the Gusii are to remain an integral part of Nyanza, they must be treated with the respect and inclusion they deserve.
As Arati emphasized, the Gusii community’s voice will no longer be sidelined. “If we must be in government, then we must feel that we are being taken care of,” Arati concluded, reaffirming the community’s intention to make their votes count in future elections.
