Jubilee shifts to Western Kenya in move to thwart referendum push

After successfully convincing some governors to oppose calls for a national referendum,  the Jubilee administration is now targeting Opposition’s backyard of Western Kenya where a political showdown is expected.

President Uhuru Kenyatta’s Jubilee administration plans to put the Coalition for Reforms and Democracy (CORD) on the defensive by dousing the enthusiasm that local people have for a referendum to amend the Constitution.

Last weekend, President Uhuru was in Budalang’i Constituency to condole with the families of  those who drowned in the River Nzoia boat tragedy, just a day after CORD Leader Raila Odinga visited the region for the burial of the step-mother of former Cabinet Minister Fred Gumo.

Raila clasped hands with area MP Ababu Namwamba as show of solidarity and also campaigned for the Okoa Kenya referendum.

As much as both sides attempted to play down the political overtones that characterised the visits, it was evident that the President capitalised on the strained relationship between the vocal MP and his party leader.

Ababu, who led the ODM Reloaded campaign to secure decisive victory for the party in Western Kenya during the 2013 General Election, is perceived as one of the region’s strongest leaders.

“We all have an obligation as leaders to serve wananchi. Despite party differences, we should all unite to serve the nation,” said President Uhuru.

While in Budalang’i, the President said that a bridge would be constructed at Sigiri Crossing Point on River Nzoia. The construction of a bridge has been a talking point  in the constituency owing to frequent deaths  of residents crossing the river as well as the impediment to commerce its absence presented. It will in effect transform the region’s transport infrastructure as movement of goods and people will open up.

Latest strategy

Political pundits view the latest strategy by the Government as a move meant to expose the poor approach that CORD has in its intention to win the support of Kenyans for the referendum campaign.

They observe that the government has resorted to address Kenyans directly by enticing them with development initiatives while discouraging political activism at the same time.

Dr Edward Kisiangani, a political analyst and lecturer at Kenyatta University, says the Jubilee Government is exploiting the weaknesses of CORD by attacking its strongholds.

The university don says problems within ODM would likely derail CORD agenda. “Western region is fed up with Luo Members of Parliament in ODM who treat Luhyas as second fiddle in everything. What happened with Musalia Mudavadi and most recently Ababu, resonates with many in the region who feel they are not wanted in the party,” said Kisiangani.

By delivering on the promise for a bridge to ease transport in Budalang’i, the President endeared himself to Ababu who vowed to work with the government in development matters. “Those who want to read politics are at liberty to do so. However, I am more concerned about the well-being of my people,” said Namwamba.

Uhuru has visited Bungoma, Vihiga, Busia and Kakamega counties at least once since he was sworn in as President.

Other development projects that the President has lined up for the region include tarmacking the Kakamega- Bungoma road that passes through Navakholo Constituency as well as giving Kibabii University College a charter.

Key pillar

“Moses Wetang’ula, a CORD co-principal,  has been silent lately and is probably thinking of his next move. He is angling for the presidency but judging from how Ababu was treated by Luo MPs in his quest to be the next ODM Secretary General, Wetang’ula will be careful to seek other avenues to further his ambition outside CORD. This will happen when he declares his intention for presidency,” said Kisiangani.

Wetang’ula, while speaking in Matayos Constituency recently, said CORD affiliated parties should work together to maintain unity.

“I urge my brothers in ODM to strengthen CORD as the party’s key pillar,” said Wetang’ula.

He said if CORD affiliate parties become strong, it would make the coalition steady enough heading into the 2017 polls.

Deputy President William Ruto has also been in the region separately for  thanksgiving ceremonies and fund-raisers to promote various development projects.

The DP is reported to be a close ally of Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka, FPK Party Leader Cyrus Jirongo, MPs Mary Emase (Teso South), Arthur Odera (Teso North) and Mt Elgon MP John Serut.

Kericho Senator Charles Keter and his Elgeyo Marakwet counterpart Kipchumba Murkomen have also come separately as envoys for the DP for various functions as part of URP’s long term strategy for the region.

Kisiangani said Ruto was looking for long-term gains in the region which would improve his standing in Jubilee as more people identify with URP.

“Ruto’ s aim is not to set an agenda to undermine President Uhuru in Western because that would be counter-productive. However, he is looking for more bargaining power in Jubilee by ensuring that the coalition’s interests are taken care of. After 2018, President Uhuru will not have time to cuddle the DP, who would be looking to make his own stab at the presidency hence, he will need enough of his own political capital,” said Kisiangani.

Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong said as the national government continues directing development projects to Western Kenya, the region’s leaders will continue working closely with its representatives. “Money has began trickling down, I cannot complain much. My relationship with the President should be taken in the context of development because you cannot eat politics,” said Ojaamong’.