The Gusii Council of Elders has now warned former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to be cautious about his remarks regarding other leaders. The council’s chairman, James Matundura, said that Odinga’s recent comments in Kisii were disrespectful to the community and contributed to the backlash he faced.
According to Matundura, the words Odinga used when speaking about former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i were offensive, and many residents were angered by them.
He stated that the heckling Odinga faced was not a planned move but a natural reaction from the youth who felt disrespected by his statements. Matundura emphasized that leaders should be mindful of their words, especially when addressing communities that hold strong cultural values.
The incident in question happened during an event at Gusii Stadium, where Shabana FC fans heckled Odinga while chanting slogans against President William Ruto. The disruption showed that a section of the Kisii community was not pleased with Odinga’s approach, especially regarding Matiang’i, who is seen as an important figure in the region.
The Gusii Council of Elders believes that Odinga should have been more considerate in his remarks to avoid causing unnecessary tension.
Odinga has enjoyed support from the Gusii region in past elections, but recent events suggest that his influence might be facing challenges. The elders’ warning signals a shift in the political mood of the region, where respect for community leaders plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
By calling out Odinga, the council is making it clear that even seasoned politicians must be careful when addressing issues that touch on regional pride.
The reactions from the Kisii youth also highlight growing political shifts within the country. While some view the heckling as a spontaneous response to Odinga’s statements, others see it as a sign of changing political dynamics in the Gusii region.
The incident raises questions about whether Odinga still holds the same level of influence he once had in the area
It remains to be seen how Odinga will respond to the concerns raised by the elders and whether he will adjust his approach when addressing communities that have traditionally supported him.
