Nyanza hopes for re-run as Supreme court decides

The decision of the Supreme Court on the presidential election petition could usher in new political patterns in Nyanza.

For more than two decades, the region has aspired to the presidency through ODM party leader Raila Odinga and, at one point, late Ford People Party leader Simon Nyachae.

Nyanza political leaders have remained hopeful that the courts will rule in favour of Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Alliance candidate Raila Odinga.

Locals may be relieved if the court orders a repeat presidential election and gives them another chance to vote for Raila. The Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church urged politicians and supporters to remain calm following the Supreme Court's decision.

Pastors led by Washington Okello of Kouyo Kochia Main SDA church in Homa Bay County and Kennedy Midiang'a of Sori SDA church in Migori want politicians and their supporters to be prepared for any verdict, regardless of which party it favours.

Okello contended that every Kenyan must be mentally prepared to promote peace.

"The petition was filed in the Supreme Court, and the court must rule. Let everyone be psychologically prepared to receive whichever verdict," Okello said.

The clergyman said the church has not taken sides, but that they are praying for justice. He urged Kenyans to pray for the Supreme Court's decision to be based on truth and justice.

"We are not requesting that the judgment be rendered in favour of any of the petitioners. But let us hope that the judges make a decision based on justice, regardless of which party they favour," Okello said.

Pastor Midiang'a urged citizens to respond to the petition verdict with Kenya's best interests in mind.

"As a church, we expect the petition to be truthful. Our country is the most important thing. Let everyone refrain from any action that may polarise the country," Midiang'a said.

Raila's lieutenants from Nyanza, Governor James Orengo (Siaya) and Rarieda MP Otiende Omollo, both expressed hope that the Supreme Court would declare the Presidential election results null and void.As they await the Supreme Court's decision today, the newly elected governors from the region have also met the new MCAs.

Former Kisii County Assembly Nominated MCA Eric Janganya stated that a re-run is possible. "This is a Raila moment, and the country is ready for him. Nyanza is hopeful for the top spot. We are prepared for the verdict."

However, a number of young people urged calm both before and after the verdict.

Koech Omondi, from Nyamira, urged his peers not to create havoc and instead to respect the Supreme Court's decision.

"The streets will not bring us victory, but protesters will injure our friends and relatives. The rule of law must be upheld."

Slyvanous Osoro, MP for South Mugirango, said the presidential election petitions were weak.

"We expect the new President to be sworn in within the next few days. Victory goes to the Kenya Kwanza team, which put up a strong defence in court."