The Luo council of elders has welcomed President William
Ruto’s state visit to the Nyanza region ahead of the Madaraka Day celebration on June
1.
Led by the Council’s ‘Ker’ (Chairperson) Odungi Randa, the elders pledged to support local
leaders from the four counties in welcoming the President and other dignitaries
to Homa Bay county next Sunday.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nyando Subcounty, Randa
indicated that elders from Siaya, Migori, Homa Bay, and Kisumu counties were
ready to receive the President when he comes to the region for a development
tour.
“The President is
welcome in this region, and we urge residents to unite as we host him,” Randa said.
We call upon locals to turn out in large numbers to meet and welcome him.
The elders attributed the visit to the recent truce between
President Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, stating that their
agreement has fostered national unity and accelerated development in Nyanza.
“The formation of a
broad-based government has enhanced peace and development at the grassroots
level, particularly in this region,” Randa added. We will use this visit as an
opportunity to thank the government for the projects implemented in the Luo
communities.
Several national government projects have been lined up
for commissioning by the head of state, which are set to significantly boost the
region’s economy and improve the living standard of the residents.
Ker Odungi lamented that the region has been lagging in terms of development due to political marginalization, noting that the
current government’s focus on Nyanza was a game-changer.
Chief Council of Elders from Homa Bay Apollo Bwana applauded the President for choosing the county to host this year’s Madaraka Day
celebration, saying the visit will stimulate economic activities.
“We urge Homa Bay
people and elected leaders to remain peaceful and to embrace the handshake for
more development in the area,” said Bwana.
Bwana also called for calm and unity even beyond the coming
general elections, citing that the Luo community was committed to peace.
Peter Otianga, a member of the Luo council of elders
representing youths, warned politicians against using the young people to spark
violence, urging the youth to engage constructively during the President’s
visit.
