Simba Arati Rallies Kisii Support for Ruto Post-ODM Deal
Kisii Governor Simba Arati has urged residents of the broader Gusii region to support President William Ruto in light of the newly formed broad-based government.
Traditionally, the Kisii region has been an opposition stronghold, with ODM party leader Raila Odinga commanding significant support.
Arati encouraged locals to stand behind the President, allowing him time to fulfill his promises now that ODM is part of the government.
This appeal follows a wave of protests led by the country’s youth over two months, demanding accountability from Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.
The Gen Z-led demonstrations resulted in loss of life, disrupted businesses, and left many with serious injuries.
In response, President Ruto dissolved his Cabinet, retaining only Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, before allying with ODM to establish a broad-based government.
With this new development, Arati, who now claims to be the primary spokesperson for the Gusii community, urged patience, allowing Ruto to deliver on his campaign promises.
“Some of us leaders have not performed well. I ask the youth to give the President time to complete his term so we can see what he has planned for us. I stand with you as a leader of the Gusii,” Arati stated.
He emphasized that the Gusii community should unite in supporting the President to help him fulfill his promises.
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The governor also highlighted the importance of strengthening democracy through a broad-based government.
President Ruto appointed former ODM deputy party leaders Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya, as well as national chairman John Mbadi and National Assembly minority leader Opiyo Wandayi, to his Cabinet.
Joho was named the Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs; Mbadi was appointed to the National Treasury; Oparanya became the CS for Cooperatives and MSME Development, while Wandayi was named the Energy and Petroleum CS.
These four were among Ruto’s harshest critics before their appointments.
Arati, once a staunch Ruto critic, was appointed alongside Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi as ODM deputy party leaders.
These changes were announced on Friday following a Central Management Committee meeting chaired by party leader Raila Odinga.
“These positions attracted significant interest from our membership. We extend our gratitude to all who offered their services, acknowledging that many have already served the party well,” ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna said in a statement.
“While not everyone can lead simultaneously, we encourage those not selected to continue contributing to the party in other ways.”
Simba Arati Rallies Kisii Support for Ruto Post-ODM Deal
