Kisii County residents have expressed concerns after recent visits by opposition-aligned leaders, advocating for political tolerance, accountable leadership, and respect for elected officials.
Representing residents from Nyaribari Masaba, Gesusu Ward, Samuel Maranga stated that Kisii remains a peaceful and politically conscious county where people prioritize dialogue and policy-focused politics. He noted that residents expected visiting leaders to articulate clear policies, viable solutions, and an appealing alternative vision.
Maranga asserted that much of the discourse during the visit focused on direct criticism of Governor Simba Arati and other elected officials. ‘Political competition is beneficial, but personal animosity is counterproductive,’ he stated.
Maranga voiced apprehension about comments attributed to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, suggesting the former DP was excessively fixated on Governor Arati. He additionally referred to previous incidents during Gachagua’s administration when GSU officers were supposedly sent to the governor’s residence under circumstances Maranga termed questionable.
He also addressed assertions by figures led by former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, who claimed that thugs disrupted their gathering and resulted in fatalities. ‘In Omogusii tradition, referencing death is a serious issue. Such accusations cannot be made without substantial evidence,’ Maranga remarked, noting that no official police reports, family statements, or credible information had been disclosed to substantiate the alleged deaths.
‘We demand that investigative and security authorities offer complete clarity. Did fatalities actually occur? If yes, how many? Where are the official records? Have any arrests been made? Kenyans deserve truth and transparency,’ he emphasized.
Maranga further defended Governor Arati, highlighting that the governor has allegedly been absent from the county for approximately a month, characterizing efforts to associate him with purported unrest as unjust and malicious. He encouraged national leaders to transcend local conflicts and concentrate on national unity, cautioning that continuous assaults on county leadership could distract from more significant national concerns.
‘As inhabitants of Kisii County, we advocate for reason, moderation, and sophisticated political discourse. Our county should not become a venue for personal conflicts,’ he stated, adding that residents recognize development programs launched by the county government across multiple sectors.
Hezron Onsoti from Kenyenya Sub-County, Bomachoge Borabu Ward, also denounced allegations of deaths during Dr Matiang’i’s event. ‘We desire harmony in our county. Let the leaders we elected complete their terms. When appropriate, we will make our choice through the electoral process,’ Onsoti stated.
Former councillor Patrick Silo cautioned against what he described as efforts to fragment the Gusii community through misinformation and provocative rhetoric. ‘We refuse to have our community damaged by falsehoods. What we seek is unity,’ he declared.
Former councillor John Nyariki from Gucha condemned what he characterized as insolence by visiting leaders who purportedly insulted the governor. ‘It is inappropriate for outsiders to arrive and denigrate a governor selected by the people of Kisii. In 2027, we will render our decision anew,’ Nyariki remarked.
Former National Union of Teachers Saba Branch chairman Moses Ndonga mentioned that Nyaribari residents were troubled by escalating political tensions, observing that several officials criticizing the governor had previously held government positions. ‘During their time in power, they had chances to perform. Now they ought to respect leaders who are actively governing,’ Ndonga stated, noting that the county continues to prioritize development initiatives, including cancer treatment facilities and the Suneka airstrip.
Naomi Omwancha Sagero from Nyaribari Chache, Ibeno Ward, appealed to politicians to grant Governor Arati room to concentrate on delivering public services.