Former Nominated Senator Milicent Omanga has emphasized the importance of electing leaders who will prioritize development and the welfare of the people, rather than those who are chosen based on party affiliations or political connections. Omanga, who is known for her outspoken views on leadership and governance, voiced her concerns during a recent end-of-year thanksgiving service in South B, Nairobi.
Omanga, who previously served as a Member of Parliament for Nairobi County, pointed out that many areas of the county have been held back in terms of development due to the election of ineffective leaders. She blamed the lack of progress on leaders who, according to her, do not engage with the local population or understand the issues they face on the ground.
“Our development has been hampered because of poor leadership,” Omanga said, echoing frustrations voiced by many Nairobi residents. “We have suffered for too long, and it’s time we made a change. We need to elect leaders who will come to the ground, who will understand the challenges we face, and who will work for our welfare.”
Her words resonated with many of those in attendance at the service, especially given the ongoing challenges that Nairobi faces, from poor infrastructure to inadequate public services. Omanga stressed that voters must be wise in the upcoming elections and select leaders based on their ability to bring about tangible change, rather than being swayed by party affiliations or political promises that fail to materialize into real action.
This call for a more discerning electorate is a reflection of growing dissatisfaction among Nairobians who feel that their voices are not being heard by those in power. Omanga’s message urges voters to focus on the competence, track record, and ability of candidates to deliver on their promises, rather than blindly following political allegiances.
“I urge all Nairobians to focus on the future. Let us not be swayed by political affiliations, but by what a leader can bring to the table,” Omanga continued. “It’s time for us to choose wisely. It’s time to choose leaders who will prioritize our development.”
The former CAS also used the platform to criticize the leaders who have neglected the needs of their constituents after being elected into office. She called for a more accountable form of leadership that would ensure the needs of Nairobi’s residents are met, particularly in the face of challenges like poverty, unemployment, and poor urban planning.
In addition to her remarks on political leadership, Omanga took the opportunity to address the issue of youth involvement in drug abuse. Speaking alongside Nairobi South MCA Waithera Chege, Omanga emphasized the need for parents to take a more active role in the lives of their children, especially during the festive season. Chege warned parents against neglecting their children, urging them to protect their youth from the dangers of drugs and substance abuse, a growing problem in Nairobi.
“Parents, don’t leave your children in the hands of drug dealers,” Chege warned. “The authorities will take action against parents who fail to ensure their children are enrolled in school when the new year begins.”
Omanga also addressed her decision to decline an appointment to the Nairobi Rivers Commission, a role that many had seen as a great honor. On social media, Omanga explained that while she was grateful for the trust shown by President William Ruto in offering her the position, she had chosen to decline due to personal reasons. She clarified that she remained committed to supporting efforts to restore Nairobi’s rivers and environment, but felt that her current commitments would not allow her to take on the new role effectively.
“I’m deeply honoured and grateful to President William Ruto for the trust you’ve shown in appointing me to serve on the Nairobi Rivers Commission,” Omanga wrote on her social media platforms. “It’s truly a privilege to be considered for such a vital role in improving our beloved Nairobi’s environment and public health. However, I remain committed to my ongoing responsibilities and will contribute to these efforts in any capacity that aligns with my current work.”
In conclusion, Milicent Omanga’s message is a timely reminder for Nairobians to look beyond party lines and choose leaders who will genuinely work to improve the city’s future. As the next elections approach, her call for a more informed electorate is one that echoes the frustrations and hopes of many who are eager for change and development in the city.
