Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has taken a surprising turn in his political stance by openly endorsing the Broad-Based Government (BBG) initiative spearheaded by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
In a statement delivered Wednesday, Nyong’o, who was previously a staunch critic of the BBG concept, expressed his strong support for the growing collaboration between the two national leaders. He said the new spirit of unity between President Ruto and Raila Odinga has created fertile ground for development and peace to take root across the country.
‘On behalf of the people and leadership of Kisumu County, I wish to extend our heartfelt and sincere gratitude to President William Ruto and Raila Odinga,” Nyong’o said.
His remarks came after President Ruto’s recent tour of the Nyanza region. Nyong’o commended the President for demonstrating a clear commitment to transformative development and inclusive leadership. He noted that Kisumu County, like many others, has already started feeling the impact of ongoing national government projects rolled out under the BBG framework.
Nyong’o Commends Major Projects in Kisumu
The Governor highlighted several key initiatives launched during Ruto’s visit, including Phase 1 of the Makasembo Affordable Housing Project, the Lake Victoria Marina Affordable Housing Project in Kirembe, and the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 3 of the Makasembo development.
He also pointed to other major infrastructure efforts currently underway in the region. These include the tarmacking of the Mamboleo-Miwani Road, the construction of the Kabonyo Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Service and Training Centre of Excellence, and the near completion of a Ksh314 million Air Traffic Control tower at Kisumu International Airport.
Nyong’o took a moment to praise Raila Odinga for donating five hectares of land for the Kirembe housing project, calling it a “profound testament” to Raila’s dedication to Kisumu’s transformation.
“This gesture is a profound testament to the former Prime Minister’s unwavering commitment to the progress of Kisumu and his enduring belief that every Kenyan deserves access to decent, affordable shelter,” Nyong’o said.
The Governor also lauded President Ruto’s political maturity in reaching across the aisle to work with Raila. He described the BBG as a crucial turning point for Kenya, one that prioritizes national cohesion over partisan politics.
“We encourage both him and the former Prime Minister to continue their joint tours across the country. Together, their leadership can usher in a new era of meaningful progress and national cohesion,” he added.
Nyong’o emphasized that the unity between Ruto and Odinga has paved the way for a more inclusive and stable governance structure. He urged other political leaders to follow suit, stressing that true progress can only be achieved through collaboration and mutual respect.
“We wholeheartedly support the decision by President Ruto and Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga to work together in the interest of national unity and development. As a county, we stand firmly behind the vision outlined in the recently signed MoU that underpins the Broad-Based Government,” he declared.
