Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o was among a delegation of political leaders from the county hosted by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on June 18. The meeting is part of a calculated outreach by the Head of State targeting leaders from the Luo Nyanza region, long considered an opposition stronghold.
This latest engagement follows a similar one with Siaya leaders led by Governor James Orengo, where Ruto pledged development projects worth over Sh3 billion. These included a Sh1 billion investment in blue economy infrastructure, a Sh2.5 billion allocation for 16 new markets, and Sh1.6 billion for last-mile electricity connections.
Governor Nyong’o’s presence marks a notable shift in tone. The ODM stalwart has had a rocky relationship with the Ruto administration, previously accusing it of undermining devolution. In April, Nyong’o criticized the continued existence of KURA and KERRA, arguing they duplicate county functions and violate the spirit of the 2010 Constitution.
However, recent developments suggest a thawing of relations. During President Ruto’s visit to Kisumu on June 5 ahead of Madaraka Day, Nyong’o lauded the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly in the housing sector. Key projects launched included the Makasembo and Lake Victoria Marina affordable housing initiatives, seen as critical in addressing urban shelter deficits.
The Kisumu County Government also acknowledged former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s donation of five hectares of land in Kirembe to support the housing agenda. Nyong’o described the donation as a symbol of Odinga’s enduring commitment to Kisumu’s growth and a nod to national development goals.
The June 18 State House meeting is viewed as part of Ruto’s broader strategy to strengthen his foothold in opposition regions, especially amid waning support in Mt. Kenya following tensions with his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua.
As the 2027 general election approaches, Ruto appears keen to realign political alliances by investing heavily in infrastructure and social development in regions previously marginalized by successive regimes. Whether these overtures will translate into long-term political gains remains to be seen, but they signal a changing political tide in Luo Nyanza.
