Kisii Governor Simba Arati's growing influence within the ODM party is significantly altering the political landscape in the Gusii region. His role in welcoming leaders who have defected to ODM, including governors and MPs, has boosted his political stature. As the party's acting leader, Arati has been at the forefront of receiving newcomers, further solidifying his position. This development has set the stage for an intensified contest between ODM and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang'i.
Some Gusii politicians who previously supported Dr. Matiang'i's ambitions are gradually distancing themselves from him. Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, a close ally of Dr. Matiang'i, has joined the Linda Mwananchi party led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. Onyonka's move has dealt a blow to Dr. Matiang'i's camp, as he was expected to seek the governorship on a Jubilee Party ticket. Onyonka's appointment as the party's treasurer further cements his new affiliation.
Arati's influence continues to grow as he welcomes more leaders to ODM. Recently, he received Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, former West Pokot Senator Samuel Poghisio, Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri, and Samburu West MP Naisula Lesuuda into the party. Arati emphasized that ODM is a big party that welcomes leaders, but they must understand that there are leaders within the party who are eyeing the positions they aspire to. He promised fair nominations, announcing that six elected MPs will join the party soon.
In Kisii County, Arati is expanding his influence by strengthening ODM and receiving leaders seeking to fill positions left vacant by those abandoning the party. He recently welcomed academic Andrew Maubi, who is seeking the Kitutu Chache South parliamentary seat on an ODM ticket. This move came as Arati met ODM grassroots leaders and supporters from the Gusii region in Kisii town. The current MP, Anthony Kibagendi, who was elected on an ODM ticket, has since left the party and joined Dr. Matiang'i's camp.
As Arati's profile continues to grow, Dr. Matiang'i has faced setbacks in his efforts to consolidate the opposition behind a common presidential candidate. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared that an alliance between him, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and Senator Edwin Sifuna would be sufficient to defeat President William Ruto without requiring the support of other opposition leaders. Dr. Matiang'i responded, accusing Gachagua of arrogance and self-importance, which he believes undermines efforts to unite the opposition.
Dr. Matiang'i expressed his willingness to support any candidate selected through an acceptable and inclusive process but opposed attempts by a small group of politicians to impose their preferred candidate on others. He emphasized that the leadership of the country cannot be determined along tribal lines and that the competition should be based on policies, qualifications, development records, and hard work. Kitutu Chache MP Anthony Kibagendi believes that even if Arati is handed the ODM party leader post, he cannot threaten Dr. Matiang'i's influence in the Gusii region.
The growing rivalry between Arati and Dr. Matiang'i is set to intensify in the coming days. While Arati's influence continues to grow, Dr. Matiang'i remains a significant player in Gusii politics. The outcome of this rivalry will likely shape the political landscape in the region and have implications for the 2027 General Election. As the competition heats up, it remains to be seen how the various players will navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries.
Key points
- Arati's growing profile in ODM is reshaping Gusii politics, posing challenges to Dr. Matiang'i.
- Some Gusii politicians who supported Dr. Matiang'i are distancing themselves from him.
- Dr. Matiang'i faces opposition hurdles in consolidating the opposition behind a common presidential candidate.
