Kisii Governor Simba Arati has raised eyebrows within the political landscape after hinting at a potential shift in Orange Democratic Alliance (ODM) allegiance, suggesting that the party might support President William Ruto in the 2027 general elections.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
Arati, who is also the Deputy Party Leader of ODM, made these remarks during Wycliffe Oparanya’s homecoming event in Kakamega County on Saturday.
During his speech, Arati urged ODM Cabinet Secretaries serving in Ruto’s government to perform exceptionally well, noting that their efforts could influence future political dynamics.
“I urge ODM CSs to perform exceptionally in Ruto’s government. They should work so well that Ruto is impressed. Remember, Ruto was once part of ODM. If anyone in UDA tries to undermine his government, as ODM Deputy Party Leader, I will invite him to discuss how we can support him in 2027,” Arati stated.
Arati’s comments appeared to be a direct message to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, cautioning him against any actions that could disrupt the cooperation between the two sides.
The governor’s comments come as Gachagua faces rebellion from within the government over his unity push that has been branded as outright tribalism.
Unity talks dominated Gachagua’s talks during his visit to Kaputiei North in Kajiado East Constituency, Kajiado County on Saturday, August 24.
President Ruto’s allies had initiated plans to begin an impeachment motion against Gachagua over claims of tribalism and allegedly sabotaging the Kenya Kwanza government.
“Mr. Deputy President, you are welcome to Kisii. Don’t fear. Continue working with the President, but if you start bringing issues from the other side, as ODM, we are ready to work with him,” Arati warned Gachagua during the President’s development tour of Kisii county.
The Kisii Governor’s statements are particularly significant given the long-standing rivalry between ODM leader Raila Odinga and President Ruto, who was once a key member of ODM before their political paths diverged.
In a move that could further unsettle the political establishment, Arati remarked, “Ruto was in ODM. I have told him to come, and as the ODM deputy party, I will look at his papers and see where he fits.”
Leaders in the ODM have dismissed claims that the party had an agreement with President William Ruto’s government, stating that they had just donated the best minds to the Kenya Kwanza administration…CONTINUE READING>>
