Former Bondo-Kasipul parliamentary aspirant Philip Aroko has warned that the Luo community is facing a political leadership vacuum following the death of former Prime Minister and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Aroko argued that Raila’s death had left many Luos searching for a new leader capable of providing direction and uniting the community politically.
“The main problem right now in Luo land is a power vacuum after Raila Odinga. Luos are looking for a leader; Luos are looking for guidance,” Aroko said.
He acknowledged the leadership of ODM interim party leader Dr Oburu Oginga, describing him as a good man, but claimed that Oburu was being influenced by individuals he accused of having misled Raila during his final years in politics.
According to Aroko, a section of the Luo community has grown tired of what he described as years of political manipulation, hand-picked leaders and leaders allegedly using community support to advance personal interests.
“Luos are tired of the politics that has been there for years. Luos are tired of hand-picked leaders. Luos are tired of politics of stories. Luos are tired of being used to achieve personal goals,” he said.
His remarks came against the backdrop of recent political tensions in Homa Bay County, where violence was reported during a political gathering associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement.
Aroko also criticised the county administration over the reported challenges facing workers and healthcare services in Homa Bay. He claimed that some county employees had gone for months without receiving their salaries and questioned the alleged use of money to finance violent groups.
He further accused Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga of failing the county and the wider Luo community, while linking the criticism to concerns over her reported political ambitions.
“Zero fear: Gladys Wanga has failed Homa Bay County and the Luo community,” Aroko stated.
However, the allegations about the governor's involvement in violence remain claims by Aroko and should not be treated as established facts without independent evidence.
Looking ahead, Aroko called for Luo leaders to put aside political differences and convene a meeting aimed at establishing a common political direction.
He questioned whether the community could unite behind President William Ruto and strategically position itself ahead of the 2032 political succession.
“Is it difficult to convene a meeting of Luo leaders and bring unity as a block to support the President so that we can align ourselves for 2032?” he asked.
Aroko warned that continued political fragmentation could weaken the community’s bargaining power in national politics, particularly after Ruto’s presidency.
His remarks highlight the broader debate within the Luo community over political succession, unity and the future direction of the region following Raila’s death.:::