President William Ruto's four-day tour of Kisii and Nyamira counties has exposed growing political competition between the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and its broad-based government partner, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), as both parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The visit, which ended on Wednesday, November 11, was marked by development announcements and political mobilisation, with leaders from the two parties using the President's public engagements to strengthen their influence in the Gusii region.
Ruto announced several infrastructure projects, including KSh22 billion for road construction and rehabilitation across the two counties. His administration also committed KSh1.7 billion to the Last Mile Connectivity programme, which is expected to connect 25,000 households to electricity.
Among the projects unveiled was the KSh1.3 billion Kerrym-Riana-Kerina road in Bonchari Constituency.
However, beyond the development agenda, the tour provided a glimpse into the political contest taking shape within the broad-based arrangement.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati, who also serves as ODM deputy party leader, publicly backed Ruto's administration, alongside Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo.
National Assembly Majority Whip Silvanus Osoro also dismissed claims of divisions within the governing partnership.
Despite their working relationship, UDA and ODM leaders appeared keen to demonstrate their respective political strength during the President's engagements.
In Bomachoge Borabu, ODM supporters dominated the launch of Tongeri Industrial Park, with Arati mobilising residents and displaying the party's colours.
In Bonchari, UDA's Dorice Donya took advantage of the gathering to promote the ruling party, while incumbent MP Charles Onchoke also sought to strengthen his political presence.
UDA's Zabeer Jhanda was equally vocal, insisting that his party remained competitive in Gusii and would pursue more elective seats in the region.
Osoro also used the tour to declare the area a UDA stronghold.
The developments suggest that the partnership between the two parties could face fresh tests as the 2027 elections approach, with both seeking to translate their influence in government into electoral support.
SOURCE: People Daily (page 2).
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