Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has signalled a notable shift in his political stance by publicly praising the Broad-Based Government (BBG) initiative spearheaded by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
In a statement to the media, Nyong’o, who has been a vocal critic of the broad-based government framework, lauded the partnership between President William Ruto and Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying the unity has created a conducive environment for development to take root in the country.
“As a county, we stand firmly behind the vision outlined in the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that underpins the Broad-Based Government. We celebrate the peace, unity, and renewed sense of hope that this partnership has inspired across the country. We call upon all Kenyans to rally behind this vision for a stronger, more inclusive Kenya,” he said.
Nyong’o urged the two leaders to continue with joint tours across the country to cement their union and bring all Kenyans together.
He further lauded the two leaders’ visit to Kisumu last week, which he said unlocked development projects for the lakeside county.
The projects, which include commissioning of the Makasembo Affordable Housing Project (Phase 1), the Lake Victoria Marina Affordable Housing Project at Kirembe, and the groundbreaking for the third phase of the Makasembo housing scheme, he said, were set to transform the economy of the county.
Additionally, Nyong’o highlighted other government-backed initiatives, including the tarmacking of the Mamboleo–Miwani Road, the Kabonyo Regional Fisheries and Aquaculture Service and Training Centre of Excellence, and the near completion of a Sh314 million new Air Traffic Control tower at Kisumu International Airport.
The Governor further praised Raila Odinga for donating five hectares of land for the Kirembe affordable housing project, calling it a “profound testament” to the former Prime Minister’s commitment to the county’s development.
The Governor’s statement marks a significant departure from his earlier vocal criticisms of the BBG framework.
In previous statements, Nyong’o had expressed concerns that the arrangement undermined devolution by centralising power and withholding funds critical to county governments.
He specifically pointed to national agencies such as the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KERRA) as examples of the national government’s encroachment on county functions.
Nyong’o’s earlier stance drew sharp criticism from Kenya Kwanza coalition members, who accused him of undermining the broad-based government.
However, his latest position signals a willingness to work collaboratively with the national government, with his supporters optimistic that the move will secure more development projects.
By Lynnet Ochieng’ and Chris Mahandara
