Kisumu's Women United: Defending PS Omollo's Legacy Against Political Backlash
In a powerful display of unity, thousands of women from Kisumu's informal settlements took to the streets on Tuesday, their voices echoing through the city center. They were on a mission to protect Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo from what they perceived as political attacks by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga. The women's determination was palpable as they marched from estates like Kaloleni, Nyalenda, Manyatta, and Obunga, each step fueled by a shared purpose.
Their placards spoke volumes, condemning Governor Wanga and demanding respect for PS Omollo. The procession caused a brief traffic halt on Oginga Odinga Street and Angawa Avenue, but the women's resolve remained unwavering. At the heart of this dispute lies the Kasipul by-election, where political tensions have escalated.
Sources reveal that Governor Wanga accused PS Omollo and his allies of secretly supporting independent candidate Philip Aroko. Despite ODM's Boyd Were ultimately winning the contest, the aftermath continues to unfold. Wanga, as ODM's national chairperson, insisted that the seat was an ODM affair, and government operatives aligned with UDA should stay out of party matters. However, critics argue that her stance aims to isolate leaders perceived as leaning towards the national government's agenda.
On the ground in Kisumu, the protesting women dismissed political intimidation. Halina Said, from Kaloleni, addressed the crowd, emphasizing PS Omollo's support for the marginalized in their communities. She highlighted how many widows in Kisumu, Siaya, Migori, and Homa Bay have benefited from housing projects and community initiatives linked to the PS. Said urged, "We stand with PS Omollo. Let Governor Wanga stop dragging him into unnecessary politics."
Sarah Opiyo, another demonstrator, echoed their support for President William Ruto's two-term movement. She warned that attempts to intimidate senior civil servants who empower grassroots communities would backfire. Opiyo stated, "We've received empowerment through PS Omollo, from school fees for our children in TVETs to programs helping young people acquire tuk-tuks and motorcycles. Leaders driven by selfish interests are fighting him because he has risen in the Luo community as an ally of ordinary people."
The protest occurred just a day after Governor Wanga stripped her deputy, Oyugi Magwanga, of the agriculture portfolio, a move interpreted as punishment for allegedly supporting Aroko during the Kasipul by-election. Insiders suggest this decision has deepened divisions within Homa Bay's leadership. Political observers note that Wanga is tightening her grip in Nyanza as ODM chair, swiftly addressing perceived internal dissent. However, her critics accuse her of using party loyalty to settle political scores, sparking further controversy and inviting public debate.
