President William Ruto publicly acknowledged the support of his former rival, Raila Odinga, during his visit to Kisumu City. The acknowledgment came as Ruto received a warm reception from thousands of residents who thronged the streets, cheering and waving banners as his convoy made its way to Kondele, a politically significant area in the lakeside city.
This visit was particularly significant, marking a new chapter in the relationship between Ruto and Raila, two political titans whose rivalry had once defined the political landscape of Kenya. The crowds in Kisumu, a region historically hostile to Ruto due to his political differences with Raila, seemed to have turned the page, showing their support for the President, whose administration has now formed a broad-based government.
In his address to the jubilant crowd, President Ruto acknowledged Raila’s crucial role in supporting his leadership, though he refrained from providing specifics about the nature of that assistance. He said, “Raila and I agreed (to work together). You know there was a time I helped Raila and this time round he has helped me, why should anyone find a problem with that?” These remarks were a rare public admission of Raila’s involvement, coming after months of political tension following the youth-led protests that had challenged Ruto’s presidency earlier in the year.
Despite the lack of details on the support Raila provided, the President expressed confidence in the power of collaboration, stressing that the aim is to unite the country. He urged politicians who spread division, hatred, and tribalism to cease their efforts, saying, “There is no space for them in the new Kenya.” Ruto reiterated his commitment to working with Raila to promote unity across the nation.
The visit to Kisumu was not only about political gestures but also about outlining Ruto’s administration’s broader vision for the country. He used the occasion to call for national cohesion, urging Kenyans to transcend ethnic divisions and work towards a prosperous, unified nation. “We must move forward as one nation, united for progress,” he said, emphasizing that no Kenyan, regardless of their background, should be left behind in the country’s journey of development.
Ruto’s government, he stated, is committed to providing opportunities for all, especially in regions that had previously felt marginalized. This commitment was further highlighted by the announcement of key government initiatives aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Kenyans. The President spoke of the government’s focus on agriculture, Universal Health Coverage (UHC), affordable housing, and job creation, particularly for the youth.
In line with these goals, Ruto expressed his administration’s unwavering support for Raila’s bid for the African Union Commission Chairperson position, confirming that Kenya would “pull all strings” to ensure Raila’s success. The President appealed for prayers and support as Raila sought votes across the African continent.
The President’s visit to Kisumu coincided with the opening of the fourth Africa Sub-Sovereign Network Conference, being held at the Swiss Grand Royal Hotel. His remarks also touched on the government’s investment in healthcare and employment, aiming to lower the cost of living and ensure that every Kenyan, no matter their financial status, has access to quality healthcare.
Among the officials accompanying the President were Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omolo, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, Treasury CS John Mbadi, and several other governors, including Ken Lusaka (Bungoma), James Orengo (Siaya), and Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay). The show of solidarity from both the national and county leadership underscored the political shift in the region, with many now embracing the unity message promoted by the government.
This visit to Kisumu marks a turning point in Kenya’s political landscape, with Ruto signaling that cooperation, rather than division, is the way forward for a united and prosperous nation.
