Ruto heads to Kisii in a bid to wrestle support from Raila

President William Ruto. [File, Standard]

President William Ruto will today visit Kisii County as he intensifies his efforts to entrench support in the region.

This is happening as leaders from the region remain upbeat over the implementation of development projects in the area, despite the slow progress in implementing past promises.

The president, who was last in Kisii in August, is optimistic of wrestling Gusii from ODM leader Raila Odinga's grip and is banking on development projects and collaborations with grassroots leaders.

President Ruto's planned visit comes at a time when there is a rift between area Governor Simba Arati and other elected leaders over the alleged low uptake of development funds and slowed implementation of development projects by the national and county governments.

On Friday, National Assembly Majority Leader Sylvanous Osoro, Solicitor General Shadrack Mose, Chairman Universal Service Advisory Council and Governor James Ongwae addressed the media at Cardinal Mosocho and called on Kisii residents to remain united ahead of Ruto's visit. Also present were KenGen Chairman Ogamba Migosi and other UDA leaders.

The President is set to attend a funds drive for the Catholic Church an event sent to be held at the the school grounds in Kitutu Chache North.

Kisii Catholic Diocese Head Bishop Joseph Mairura will host the President in a Constituency that is led by Anthony Kibagendi who was an ally-turned-critic of President Ruto's leadership.

Ongwae and Mose said the region supports the President's agenda, adding that politics should not feature in the meeting.

"We have heard the President's agenda for our region. All he needs is our support. Leaders should shun hatred and selfish interests for the sake of our people," they said.