Raila Odinga tightens grip on Nyanza stronghold as political storm brews

As he prepares to spearhead a fresh charge against the contentious Finance Bill of 2023, which currently awaits presidential approval, Raila is leaving no stone unturned.

Recent weeks have witnessed a surge in political activities dominating the region's political arena, with Raila's supporters actively working to fortify the Orange party and fend off a barrage of criticism.

Concerns have been raised that Raila's political adversaries in Kenya Kwanza are gaining ground in the region, purportedly by strategically placing former ODM allies to undermine Raila's political standing. Determined not to leave anything to chance, the seasoned statesman is taking decisive action.

In a strategic move to solidify their influence and counter rebellious members within the ODM, Raila's party has embarked on an intensive grassroots mobilization campaign in the region.

Not stopping there, Raila and his allies have also directed their efforts towards the once-powerful Luo Council of Elders, whose waning influence has been marred by persistent internal conflicts and divisions.

Under the banner of promoting Luo unity, Raila's allies in the region have organized a significant cultural event known as Piny Luo.

This extravaganza, scheduled to take place on June 30 and July 1 in Homa Bay county, aims to bring together members of the Luo community with the sole objective of fostering unity.

It is a reminiscent recreation of the historic Luo Union festivals that propelled Raila's father, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, to political stardom in the 1950s.

Raila's allies firmly believe that a united Luo community holds immense strength and has the potential to champion the region's political and developmental interests under Raila's leadership.

The organisation of this event has been entrusted to Luo Nyanza governors: Gladys Wanga of Homa Bay, Anyang' Nyong'o of Kisumu, Ochillo Ayacko of Migori, and James Orengo of Siaya.

Together, they are working diligently to ensure the success of Piny Luo and further strengthen Raila's political grip in the region.

Raila is set to preside over the upcoming festival scheduled to take place in Homa Bay on June 30 and July 1. One of the significant highlights of the event will be the unveiling of the new chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, known as 'ker,' who will replace the late Opiyo Otondi.

While Raila's allies insist that the event is purely cultural in nature, many observers believe that it serves as a strategic move by Raila and his supporters to strengthen their grassroots support base.

This development arises at a time when another faction of elders, who claim legitimacy as the true leaders of the Luo Council of Elders, are pushing back against the appointment of a new chairman.

Led by Nyandiko Ongadi, this faction asserts that Ongadi himself is the legitimate chairman of the council. Interestingly, this faction has garnered support from politicians affiliated with Kenya Kwanza in the region and is actively challenging Raila's influence in Nyanza.

Raila recognises the importance of restoring order within the council, as it plays a crucial role in negotiating coalitions with other communities. Moreover, the council played a significant part in Raila's efforts to gain support in the Mount Kenya region leading up to the General Elections last year.

Overall, the festival serves as a platform for Raila to consolidate his influence and maintain a strong foothold in Nyanza's political landscape. It allows him to engage with key stakeholders and reaffirm his position as a prominent figure in Luo cultural affairs and political negotiations.

The cultural event organised by Raila's allies holds great significance as they aim to strengthen the unity of the Luo community, which has been unwavering in its support for the ODM leader for the past three decades.

Governor Wanga has confirmed that Raila will be the chief guest and preside over the event.

"The extravaganza aims to bring the Luo community together, reigniting the spirit of resourcefulness, productivity, and unity. This is especially crucial given the challenging socio-economic and political circumstances affecting our nation and the world at this time," said Wanga.

Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili added that the event will culminate in the election of a new Ker, a significant position within the Luo community.

Owili urged politicians affiliated with the UDA party to refrain from interfering in the process and alleged that allies of the president were attempting to influence the installation of a new chairman for the council.

"It is important to understand that the election of a Ker, or any elevation within the community, is not solely the domain of politicians. We have received information about politicians attempting to interfere, but their efforts will be in vain. The elders will duly unveil a new Ker," Owili added.

To reaffirm its commitment to confront ODM directly, Ruto's UDA party has made plans for a simultaneous event in Homa Bay, where Secretary General Cleophas Malala is expected to inaugurate a new UDA party office on June 30.

John Odek, the coordinator of UDA in Homa Bay County, stated that the opening of the office by Malala aims to bolster the party's presence in Homa Bay and pose a challenge to Raila's ODM party.

"Our objective is for UDA to become one of the most influential political parties in Homa Bay. Establishing the county office here in Homa Bay town will facilitate the coordination of our activities," Odek said.