Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed commended President William Ruto during his development tour of the Nyanza region on Wednesday. The tour is part of Ruto’s broader efforts to foster national cohesion and ensure equitable distribution of development across all regions.
Junet, who has been a vocal supporter of opposition leader Raila Odinga, offered warm praise for the President’s initiatives, particularly the ongoing peace and stability witnessed in the country. He emphasized that this tranquility is essential for equitable sharing of the “national cake,” a metaphor for the country’s resources and opportunities.
“We want to unite so that we can realize development,” Junet stated, expressing optimism about the current environment of collaboration. “We have lagged behind. We just got electricity the other day, and the roads are being launched now. It had reached a point where we thought we were Bagandas.”
Junet’s comments highlight the challenges faced by the Nyanza region in terms of development, pointing out that some areas are still catching up with the rest of the country. He noted that only recently have significant infrastructure projects, such as electricity and road networks, been initiated in certain parts of Nyanza, underlining the region’s need for more comprehensive development strategies.
Praising Ruto’s Support for Raila
In a surprising move, Junet also thanked President Ruto for supporting Raila Odinga’s bid for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission (AUC). This support, according to Junet, is an important step toward strengthening national unity and securing the country’s position in the African diplomatic landscape.
“President, that road you are on now, if you continue on it, it leads to God,” Junet remarked, emphasizing that the President’s actions are well-received by the people of Nyanza. “Continue on that road fully; it is blessed, and it is the road the citizens here love.”
Junet’s metaphorical statement reflects the local appreciation for President Ruto’s efforts to support a national leader like Raila Odinga, transcending party lines and promoting a collaborative political atmosphere. This rare gesture of appreciation from a senior opposition figure like Junet Mohamed may signify a new phase in Kenya’s political dynamics, where cooperation takes precedence over rivalry.
Ruto’s Tour of Nyanza: A Development Agenda
President Ruto’s visit to the Nyanza region began on Wednesday, and he is expected to visit several key locations, including Homa Bay, Siaya, and Kisumu. On Thursday, he will attend a Thanksgiving ceremony for Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi in Homa Bay. On Friday, the President is scheduled to launch various projects in Siaya and later attend the homecoming of Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi.
This tour, which will wrap up in Kisumu, underscores President Ruto’s commitment to ensuring that development reaches all corners of the country. His presence in Nyanza, a region historically aligned with the opposition, is seen as a strategic move to bridge political divides and promote national unity.
A New Dawn in Kenyan Politics?
Junet’s unexpected praise for President Ruto and his call for continued support of Raila Odinga mark a potential turning point in Kenya’s political landscape. His remarks suggest a willingness among some opposition leaders to work with the government in advancing national development goals.
For President Ruto, these statements may offer a chance to build stronger relationships across the political spectrum, furthering his agenda of inclusivity and equitable growth. As he continues his tour of the Nyanza region, the President’s actions will be closely watched for signs of how this newfound unity might shape Kenya’s future.
As the Head of State moves forward with his development plans in Nyanza, he appears committed to ensuring that all regions, regardless of their political affiliations, benefit equally from the nation’s growth. This strategy could play a pivotal role in fostering a more cohesive and prosperous Kenya.
