Former MP says Nyanza safe under Ruto leadership

Former Nyatike lawmaker Omondi Anyanga has urged Nyanza residents to rally behind President Wiliam Ruto. [File, Standard]

A section of Nyanza leaders have urged counties to work closely with the national government in implementing pro-poor community projects that will alleviate poverty.

Former Nyatike lawmaker Omondi Anyanga stressed unity among leaders, saying political differences hinder service delivery.

"Only effective leadership accompanied by cooperation between county and national officials will liberate our people from shackles of poverty," he said.

Speaking during the burial of ODM politician Ocholla Mbuta at the weekend, Anyanga said projects like the Sh5 billion Lower Kuja irrigation scheme will turn around the economy.

They called on Nyanza governors to consult widely and deliver for the people.

"Bring the people together and consult all leaders in the country. This will give you easy time as you strive to transform the county," said Anyanga, who chairs the board of directors of the Kenya Nuclear Regulatory Authority.

President William Ruto recent past visited Homa Bay, Migori, Siaya and Kisumu and commissioned projects in fishing, agriculture, trade and industry, energy, health, digital economy, roads and transport sectors.

The former legislator, at the same time, said Luo Nyanza residents were safe under the leadership of President William Ruto and his deputy Kithure Kindiki.

"With President Ruto working together with ODM leader Raila Odinga, we have reason to be optimistic," he added.

The group called on the government to open a state lodge in Migori as a way of bringing power closer to the people. Anyanga said having a State lodge in Migori would enable the President hold strategic meetings even with investors from the neighbouring Tanzania.

"We should thank the President for working hard to steady the ship. Nothing now stops our country form joining the league of stable middle-income economies. All we can do is to rally behind Ruto, Raila and all leaders," Anyanga said.