Aston Lukoye
Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya, could not believe his eyes as he made a dramatic entrance to the Kalenjin people in Kericho and Bomet counties last weekend. South Rift is viewed as Deputy President Ruto’s stronghold, yet the political maturity they shown is something that everyone should admire.
High-turnout
Notwithstanding what happened recently to Ruto in Kisumu where protesters pelted stones at the DP”s convoy along the Kondele suburb area. Peace prevailed in both meetings and no altercation was witnessed between organisers and locals. Locals came out to listen to the Azimio brigade as they market their agenda.
As of now, Ruto has made few trips to the Nyanza region especially Kisumu, Siaya and Homabay counties and political pundits have not failed to try to unravel the possible reasons behind the same.
Nothing is worse than welcoming someone to your home but you face rejection when you visit his area.
Threat of violence
One of the possible reasons behind Ruto shunning Luo Nyanza is the potential threat of violence considering the unequivocal and long-lasting support they have given Azimio’s presidential candidate. Locals would always keep their votes intact and deliver them to their kingpin.
The ministry of interior and internal security led by Dr Matiangi has put Kisumu to be among the hot spot areas and stringent measures have been put in place to curb the same.
Possibilities of political violence are high in this county and since this election is highly contested between Raila and Ruto, the border between Kericho and Kisumu has suffered cases of insecurity.
Voting pattern
Another possible reason for Ruto to avoid Pro-Raila areas is their nature of voting for their own only. They always deliver about 100% to Azimio’s presidential candidate.
Nothing deters them from repeating the same in the coming election. The Deputy President may have made some calculations and found out he may garner insignificant votes from the said areas.
However, that should not be the case and a few visits may be necessary for him to avoid painting the area as unwelcoming and intolerant.
Less than a month before the election, citizens of this great country are asked to maintain peace and show tolerance to their opponents.
It will be of great benefit to ourselves and also to this economically struggling nation.
Nothing surpasses a peaceful environment which gives foreign investors the courage to invest more in the country and see their businesses flourish.
Source: Opera
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