President Uhuru Kenyatta's Nyanza tour sparks political interest

President Uhuru Kenyatta's anticipated tour of Kisumu County has continued to cause political excitement, with various leaders giving their views on the visit.

Migori Parliamentary Group Chairman Omondi Anyanga said Nyanza people should not be negative about the planned tour since the Head of State is free to visit any part of the country and initiate development projects for all.

Mr Anyanga said county governments cannot undertake all projects without the support of the national government.

"Leaders should not mix politics with development. The President's visit should be encouraged because he has a right to go anywhere in the country.

"The local leaders will surely have a memorandum to present to him for action," he said.

Anyanga, who is also Nyatike MP, said Nyanza had for years lagged behind in development and would be at par with other regions if issues affecting it are addressed.

He cited Lake Victoria and the huge tracts of agriculturally productive land that are left lying fallow as some of the issues that require quick fixing to exploit the region's potential.

Good idea

Kitutu Chache MP Richard Onyonka opposed leaders demands that Opposition leader Raila Odinga should accompany President Kenyatta, terming it as unfair to the former premier.

"If Raila's presence will increase the unity and cohesion that we have been yearning so much for, then it is a good idea for him to be there. But if it is not, then he should not accompany the President," said Mr Onyonka.

Kisumu Governor Jacktone Ranguma said top on the agenda of Uhuru's visit is the revival of collapsed industries, supporting rice schemes through infrastructure and handing over management of sugar firms to the county.