This archive report was first published on 7 November 2019.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has been gaining traction in the Gusii community, with leaders from Nyamira and Kisii counties rallying behind his candidature in 2022.
However, his growing influence has not gone unnoticed by William Ruto, who has been making frequent visits to the region.
According to sources, Ruto's visits have stirred anxiety, tension, panic, and animosity among the elected leaders from the Gusii community, who are rooting for Matiang'i's candidature.
Consequently, they have turned to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) for a Luo-Gusii political alliance to counter Ruto's influence in the community.
MPs from Luo Nyanza have vowed to protect Matiang'i, with Senator Sam Ongeri leading the alliance that has the full backing of ODM leader Raila Odinga.
On October 31, 2019, Matiang'i made an extensive tour of Homa Bay County, where he called for unity between Luo and Kisii leaders.
He also opened a police station, a new sub-county administrative unit, and conducted two funds drives, accompanied by a host of MPs from both communities who showered him with praises.
“I will come back to this region to talk to you on a number of issues that can bring us together as one family. It is not a crime if I meet Nyanza residents to discuss what they want the government to do for them,” Matiang'i said.
