By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 17 April 2026 - In a stirring address marked by conviction and purpose, Principal Secretary for Internal Security, Raymond Omollo, urged leaders and residents of the Nyanza region to rally behind ODM party leader Dr Oburu Oginga Odinga, while embracing a broader vision of national unity under President William Ruto.
Speaking at the historic Nyanza Club during a fundraising event, Dr Omollo underscored what he described as a rare and significant moment—“the first time we have a government that truly listens to the people of Nyanza.”
With measured eloquence, Dr Omollo called upon the region’s leadership, particularly supporters of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), to align themselves with ODM party leader Dr Oburu in what he termed a collective quest for political relevance and community empowerment.
He emphasised that the current administration is keen to foster inclusivity, bridging political divides through cooperation between the Orange party and the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
According to Dr Omollo, such collaboration is not merely strategic but essential for ensuring that Nyanza secures its rightful place in the national development agenda.
He further reassured the gathering that President Ruto harbours genuine goodwill towards the people of Nyanza and other regions that have demonstrated support for his leadership. Ongoing development projects across the region, he noted, are a testament to the government’s commitment to uplifting communities and advancing the common good.
In this regard, he appealed for respect, tolerance, and goodwill towards the Broad-Based Government (BBG) framework, which he described as a vehicle for national cohesion and shared prosperity.
The event itself was both symbolic and practical, as it sought to raise funds for the refurbishment of the century-old Nyanza Club, now in its 111th year.
According to the club’s leadership under Tom Odongo, a sum of KSh 150 million is required to complete its ongoing facelift.
Dr Omollo attended the function at the invitation of the club, stepping in for President Ruto, who had been scheduled to preside over the fundraiser but was unable to do so. In his stead, Dr Oburu represented the Head of State, reiterating the administration’s support for community-driven initiatives.
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The gathering brought together an array of prominent leaders, including Principal Secretary for Health Ouma Oluga, Gender Affairs and Children’s Services official Caren Agengo, Paul Otuoma, Kisumu Deputy Governor Mathews Owili, Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor, Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron, and Nicholas Gumbo, among others. Former ambassador David Arunga was also in attendance, alongside a host of distinguished members.
Notably, while the occasion carried unmistakable political undertones, several leaders chose restraint over rhetoric.
In deference to the presence of the party leader, they limited their contributions to brief greetings, opting instead to observe proceedings without delving into overt political discourse.
In his remarks, Dr Oburu confirmed that his presence was in an official capacity, representing President Ruto.
His attendance, coupled with the sentiments expressed by Dr Omollo, painted a picture of a region at a crossroads—one where unity, cooperation, and strategic alignment may well determine its future trajectory.
Dr Oburu called on those who are talking ill of the government officials from Nyanza to stop such negative politics.
He said such talks should end immediately.
Oburu claimed for the first time a leader from the Luo community was serving in the finance docket.
This is good.
"These are very rare opportunities. So you can't talk ill of them," he said adding those who are not the appointing authority have no reason to demand that sons from the community seize working in the government.
"They are not the ones who placed them there. Let's us support our people in government who are arguably performing well to carry on with the good work. ... Yes. We will strongly support them to deliver," he declared.
He said everyone from Nyanza who has an opportunity to work in the government must be supported to deliver.