Alai’s brief statement referred to “watermelons”, a term often used in Kenyan politics to describe people perceived to be supporting opposing political sides at the same time.
Kajwang’ had spoken about the difficulties Homa Bay residents experienced for many years because of poor road infrastructure.
He said the community had suffered for decades without a single tarmacked road since independence.
He then credited President Ruto with bringing development to the region, using the example of therapy and psychiatric care to describe how the new developments had addressed long-standing frustrations.
“The depression we had as the people of Homa Bay was so severe that we needed to see therapists and even psychiatrists,” Kajwang’ said.
He added that Ruto had come in as their therapist and psychiatrist by bringing development to the region.
Alai responded with a short post on his social media account, writing, “All watermelons have aligned.
Great news.” Although he did not mention Kajwang’ directly, the timing of the message drew attention because it followed the senator’s positive comments about the President.
His choice of words appeared to question the political positions of leaders associated with the changing relationship between ODM and Ruto.
The exchange comes as ODM and Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance continue discussions over a possible pre-election agreement ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kajwang’ has previously called for caution, arguing that any political partnership should have clear terms and a written agreement.
His praise for development in Homa Bay therefore comes against a wider debate within ODM about how the party should approach its relationship with the President.
https://x.com/RobertAlai/status/2120797546578837543?a=_PkshFe4cbLCPHLjxhg&s=19
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