Governor Arati further claimed that while ODM is part of the broad-based government, Kisii and Kuria regions have been marginalized in favour of Luo Nyanza in cabinet and other political appointments
Governor Simba Arati of Kisii, who also serves as the Deputy Party Leader of ODM, has for the first time in his political career publicly criticized his party leader, Raila Odinga. This unprecedented move signals a significant shift in Kisii politics and a potential challenge to Odinga’s long-standing dominance.
Arati expressed his dissatisfaction with the prevailing political situation, accusing Raila of sidelining the Kisii community within ODM. He recalled the alleged betrayal of the late Simon Nyachae of Ford-People by Raila in 2002, asserting that the Kisii community’s electoral strength, comprising nearly 2 million registered voters nationwide, must be acknowledged in the 2027 elections.
Arati further claimed that while ODM is part of the broad-based government, Kisii and Kuria regions have been marginalized in favour of Luo Nyanza in cabinet and other political appointments. He emphasized that Kisii County, with 700,000 registered voters, and Nyamira County, with 300,000, alongside significant Kisii populations in Nairobi and other counties, hold enough sway to alter the political landscape.
Political analysts view this as part of Arati’s broader strategy to consolidate the Kisii community under his leadership within a single political party. The move, gaining traction among Kisii leaders and voters, poses a direct challenge to Raila’s leadership while elevating Fred Matiangi’s influence in Kisii politics.
Matiangi, a former Interior Cabinet Secretary, is increasingly seen as a unifying figure and a serious contender for the 2027 presidential race. Kisii opinion leaders, including clergy and Gen-Z voters, are rallying behind Matiangi, with speculation that former President Uhuru Kenyatta might endorse him as a challenger to President William Ruto’s re-election bid.
Arati’s bold criticism of Raila, instead of addressing him privately, underscores the shifting dynamics within ODM and the Abagusii community’s push for greater political recognition. As Kisii leaders deliberate on a unified political platform, the region’s role in shaping the 2027 elections grows ever more critical.
