Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga has praised residents for what she described as a display of political maturity and restraint following a peaceful rally held in the lakeside city on Sunday, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Siaya Governor James Orengo and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.
The rally, which proceeded without major security incidents or disruptions, came amid earlier political tensions in the region, including warnings from some leaders who had questioned whether the meeting would take place in Kisumu.
Speaking after the event, Ruth Odinga said the turnout and conduct of residents reflected a strong commitment to peace, democratic expression and civic responsibility.
“To the people of Kisumu, I say a heartfelt thank you. Today, you demonstrated to the world that Kisumu remains a bastion of peace and democratic maturity. Despite the tension fueled by a few, you chose to engage with dignity and decorum,” she said.
Her remarks followed a day in which crowds gathered in an orderly manner, speeches were delivered without interruption, and security remained largely preventive.
Authorities had earlier assured residents that the rally would be secured, while organisers emphasised calm participation.
‘Attempts to derail rally failed,’ says Odinga
Ruth Odinga also pointed to what she termed as efforts made in the days leading up to the rally to frustrate its organisation. She alleged that some leaders had sought to influence events on the ground in a manner that could have disrupted the gathering.
“However, we must address the disappointing events that preceded this successful day. It is a matter of public record that certain leaders attempted to block this meeting, going as far as mobilizing and funding a section of our youth to disrupt the rally,” she said.
She added that such efforts did not succeed, noting that residents refused to be drawn into political confrontation.
“Fortunately, their attempts backfired. You saw through these tactics and refused to be used as pawns in a game of political sabotage,” she stated.
Warning against ‘transactional politics’
The Kisumu Women Representative also used the opportunity to criticise what she termed as transactional politics, warning against the use of money or influence to manipulate young people during political activities.
“I want to be very clear: transactional politics has no room in our present times. The days of treating our youth as ‘hired muscles’ or commodities to be bought for a few coins are over. ‘Politics of the pocket’ is a direct insult to the intelligence of our voters and a threat to democracy,” she said.
She emphasised that political competition should be grounded in ideas, dialogue and respect for constitutional freedoms.
“The freedoms of movement and association are not favors granted by individuals; they are sacred rights enshrined in our Bill of Rights,” she added.
Call for issue-based politics
Ruth Odinga further urged leaders across the political divide to embrace issue-based engagement rather than intimidation or mobilisation of groups for political gain.
“True leaders win hearts and minds through dialogue and ideas, not through intimidation or the exploitation of our young people,” she said.