Former Kisumu Senator Fred Outa has denied claims some leaders from Nyanza supporting President William Ruto are insulting ODM chief Raila Odinga.
He said Raila is a respected leader in the country and no leader of sound mind can insult him.
Outa said Raila championed democracy and devolution in the country.
He said those spreading such propaganda are jealous of leaders from the region who have embraced Ruto's presidency.
“I want to categorically tell you that there is no leader in his right senses from Nyanza who can dare insult Raila. I want to implore you to shun the propaganda being peddled by people who are not happy with our political decision,” Outa said.
The ex-lawmaker said their main goal is to work with the government of the day for the sake of development.
“We want our community to be part of the government and not miss out on the national cake,” he said.
Outa said they have already seen a commitment by Ruto’s administration in developing the region.
“Just the other day, President Ruto oversaw Sh30 billion climate change and smart agriculture fund for Kisumu county,” he said.
Outa further cited the Sh2.5 billion aquaculture project that is expected to transform the fishing sector in the region.
He spoke in Kisumu on Sunday when he accompanied ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo during the 50th Jubilee celebration of Arina African Inland Church.
Former governors Jack Ranguma (Kisumu) and Okoth Obado (Migori), former MPs Sylvance Osele, Augustino Neto, Edick Anyanga, Rose Nyamunga and Martin Ogindo were present.
Owalo, who represented President Ruto at the church function, said the government is keen to develop the area regardless of their voting pattern.
He urged residents to engage in the politics of development aimed at uplifting them economically.
“Elections are over and it is time to work for Kenyans. What is now taking over is the politics of development. The Kenya Kwanza government will ensure all regions are developed economically,” the CS said.
Owalo said the conversation should focus on how best the government would revive sugarcane farming in the region and revitalise the fishing sector.
He assured President Ruto's administration will work with elected and non-elected leaders in Nyanza.
“I want to categorically state that all leaders in this region, whether they are elected or not, will be consulted more periodically by this government to ensure development reaches every part of the region,” Owalo said.
