Siaya Deputy Governor Dr. William Oduol has issued a hard-hitting Jamhuri Day message calling out what he termed as “divisive grandstanding” by unnamed Nyanza leaders, urging them to embrace collaboration with the national government instead of antagonism that only harms the region’s interests.
In a strongly worded statement to Kenyans, Dr. Oduol said it was hypocritical for some leaders to sabotage or dismiss President Dr. William Samoei Ruto’s outreach to Siaya, especially at a time when the Head of State has placed the county at the centre of national development programs.
Ruto Has Prioritised Siaya, Oduol Says
The Deputy Governor reminded residents that Siaya had suffered decades of marginalization under previous regimes, yet is now witnessing unprecedented investment under President Ruto’s administration.
He highlighted three flagship projects as clear evidence of the President’s goodwill:
The ongoing upgrade of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Stadium
Expansion and modernization of Siaya County Referral Hospital
Construction of a new ultra-modern market at the heart of Siaya town
As a certified accountant Dr. Oduol said he gives precedence to figures, adding “there are quantifiable, statistical measures to qualify the equation that Ruto means well for Nyanza.” He urged the region to work with the President to secure more infrastructural, economic, and social development opportunities.
Dr. Oduol did not mince words regarding the decision by some Nyanza governors to skip a State House meeting hosted by President Ruto on Thursday afternoon.
He termed the boycott “infantile behaviour masquerading as political bravado,” and cautioned leaders against theatrics that do not translate into development for the people they serve.
“The era of empty chest-thumping should be long gone. Collaboration, not confrontation, is what lifts regions,” he said, emphasising the need for mature political engagement.
Jamhuri Day: A Reminder of Kenya’s Shared Destiny
Dr. Oduol also used his message to remind Kenyans of the significance of Jamhuri Day, celebrated every 12th December to mark:
Kenya’s attainment of full independence in 1963, and
The country’s transition into a republic.
He noted that the holiday, listed under Article 8 of the 2010 Constitution, is a powerful reminder of unity, resilience, and national pride—values he said should guide leaders in their decision-making, especially at a time when Kenya needs cohesion to accelerate growth.
Dr. Oduol urged Siaya residents and Kenyans at large to reject divisive politics and instead focus on forging partnerships that deliver progress.
“History will not remember who shouted the loudest, but who built the roads, hospitals, markets, and opportunities for their people,” he said.
As Nyanza’s political tensions simmer, Dr. Oduol’s statement adds a new voice—bold, unapologetic, and sharply critical—challenging the region’s leaders to rethink the politics of boycott and embrace a more strategic approach to development.
