Don't interfere with constituency politics, elders tell Raila

Some elders now want ODM leader Raila Odinga to stop engaging in grassroots politics.

Suba Council of Elders told the Azimio leader to focus on the campaign for the African Union Commission chairmanship.

Addressing journalists in Sindo town, the elders argued that Raila had acquired the stature of an international politician hence it does not auger well if he engages in constituency politics.

“We wish Hon Odinga success in his quest to become the next chairperson of AUC. We urge him to focus on continental campaigns instead of being dragged to Kirundu (backward village) fights by politicians who cry Baba reswa (Baba save us),” said Joab Ikawa, who read their statement.

Raila held rallies in Suba South Constituency last Sunday where he criticised Suba South MP Caroli Omondi for working with President William Ruto.

Instead, he endorsed ODM national chairman John Mbadi to take over the Suba South parliamentary seat in the 2027 General election.

But the elders asked Omondi to continue working with President Ruto. “We call upon our MP to engage politically with as many leaders across the country to explore new formations that will help us get development projects and promote unity,” Ikawa said.

“All people who want the Suba South parliamentary seat are our children. We appeal to Odinga to leave us alone and choose the one who is capable of leading us among our children come the next election,” added Nelson Ounga.

The elders called for peace, saying too much politics would deter development.

“We want peace to prevail in Suba South to enable us to get the development projects we deserve. Let Caroli Omondi be given time to serve the people,” said Samuel Angugo.

The projects include the tarmacking of 74km Sori-Magunga-Sindo- Mbita road worth Sh2.8 billion and the rehabilitation of Sindo-Nyagwethe-Nyandiwa-Sori road at Sh115 million. Others are installation of WiFi at Magunga and Nyandiwa markets and connection to the national fibre optic and electricity.