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Sitting Exams: President Ruto’s lieutenants in a must-pass situation, as major realignment expected

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By Anderson Ojwang

From 6:00 a.m. today, all polling stations for the 22 by-elections—both parliamentary and Member of County Assembly—opened their doors.

And by 5:00 p.m. today, the examiners will call order to declare the end of the exams, and marking will commence immediately to ascertain the winners.

For President William Ruto, he has his eyes on Malava, Magarini, Mbeere North, Ugunja and Kasipul, where the broad-based candidates faced off with the United Opposition, and this could usher in a major realignment ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

President Ruto, who did not participate in the campaigns, had delegated the responsibility to his lieutenants and delivered to them all the resources they required for the exercise.

For the President, the message was simple and clear: you have what you need to deliver—go out and bring victory. Now the President is waiting for the results this evening.

President Ruto had delegated the tutorial roles to his deputy, Prof. Abraham Kithure Kindiki, to oversee the preparation of the Mbeere North student, Leonard Wamuthende, against rival Newton Karish of DP.

In Mbeere North, Kindiki staged a high-voltage campaign against his sworn and bitter rival, immediate former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

As the President’s deputy and main point man in the Mt. Kenya region, Kindiki must ensure his student passes the exams and retains the bragging rights for the Murima.

He had the duty to deconstruct the narrative that the restive Mt. Kenya region had slid away from Ruto, whom they supported in the 2022 presidential election.

Kindiki wrote on his X handle: “To the great people of Mbeere North, thank you for the hospitality and the audience that you accorded UDA candidate Leo Wamuthende throughout the campaign.
Ahead of the Thursday by-election, that declaration was cemented today as Leo made his final submissions at Gitiburi grounds. Asanteni sana Mbeere North.”

But DP party leader JB Muturi was also on the ground to supervise and give encouragement to his student, Karish, as he wrote the exams.

In one of the clips that went viral, Muturi was captured grabbing a youth.

He wrote on his X handle: “We have just left Siakago polling station, where voters are turning out with courage and clarity. I am here to ensure they are protected, respected, and allowed to exercise their democratic right without interference, intimidation, or unlawful conduct.
Mbeere has spoken before. Mbeere will speak again. And today the ballot will speak.”

In Malava Constituency, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula were leading the UDA candidate David Ndakwa against DAP-K’s Seth Panyako, fronted by Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya.

President Ruto wants to consolidate the Western votes and hopes Wetang’ula and Mudavadi will lead in the pursuit.

Wetang’ula wrote on his X handle: “This morning I cast my vote at Namakhele Primary School during the Chwele-Kabuchai ward by-elections.
I urged our residents to come out in large numbers and exercise their democratic right without fear, assuring them that adequate security officers have been deployed across the area.
I also encouraged voters to remain vigilant and promptly report any unusual or suspicious activities to the authorities.”

The ward and the Malava seats are a do-or-die for Wetang’ula and Mudavadi, and any slip would be politically costly and give Natembeya and his team from the Luhya community additional impetus to take charge of the community’s political dispensation heading into the 2027 general elections.

In Kasipul, President Ruto will be watching keenly whether the ODM national chairperson and also Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga still calls the shots in the region’s politics in the post-Raila political realignment.

Wanga is facing a combined force from her deputy Oyugi Magwanga, former Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero, former Migori Governor Okoth Obado, among others.

Wanga is fronting ODM candidate Boyd Were, son of the immediate former MP, the slain Charles Ongondo Were, against independent candidate Philip Aroko.

But Wanga’s key campaigner and ally, Homa Bay MP Opondo Kaluma, suffered the wrath of political violence when he went to observe the administration of the exams.

Wanga wrote on her X handle: “A powerful conclusion to a historic campaign. At Obisa grounds, we made our final stand for the future of Kasipul— a future built on tolerance, justice, and the non-negotiable priority of quality education. The choice is clear. On Thursday, let’s unite and make our voice heard for one leader with the resolve to deliver.”

IEBC urged the electorate to turn out and vote and wrote on its X handle: “To all voters in the 22 by-election areas, your participation matters. We encourage you to turn out in large numbers and peacefully exercise your democratic rights.”

Sweet victories for the Wangas as George is appointed CEO of KLB

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By Hope Barbra

After the revocation of his appointment as the chairman of the Energy Regulation Authority just four months into office, George Ouma Wanga is once again soaring high.

On Wednesday, George, the husband to Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, was appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Literature Bureau (KLB). Wanga will serve for a period of three years.

The governor is one of the key pillars and supporters of President William Ruto’s broad-based government arrangement with the late Raila Odinga and the ODM party.

Wanga, who was recently confirmed as the ODM national chairperson, leads one of the wings in the ODM party that supports the re-election of President Ruto and the political alliance between her party and UDA.

Wanga, ODM party leader Dr. Oburu Odinga, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, his Energy counterpart Opiyo Wandayi, and National Assembly Budget Chairman Sam Atandi, among others, lead the wing that supports the broad-based government.

Siaya Senator James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna are opposed to the arrangement and do not support the political alliance between UDA and ODM.

Babu has already declared support for Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka for president.

In an X handle post, Julius Kibet Bitok, Principal Secretary, State Department of Basic Education, said he held discussions with Mr. George Wanga, the incoming CEO of the Kenya Literature Bureau today.

It read: “Held discussions with Mr. George Wanga, the incoming CEO of the Kenya Literature Bureau today. KLB reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its mandate of providing high-quality learning materials that support curriculum requirements and ongoing education reforms.
As we continue enhancing the delivery of competency-based learning, our focus remains on ensuring that every learner has access to relevant, affordable, and high-quality educational resources.
We appreciate KLB’s dedication to fulfilling its role within the ministry and contributing to our shared goal of improving learning outcomes across the country.”

Wanga will be responsible for leading the organization in executing its policy through managing the agency’s daily operations and providing sustainable growth.

Formed in 1980, KLB has for decades been responsible for publishing, printing, and distributing educational materials, and in particular, creating curriculum-based textbooks.

When he was appointed the chair of EPRA, CEO Daniel Kiptoo wrote: “We welcome Mr. George Wanga as the new Non-Executive Chairperson of our Board of Directors. He takes the baton from Hon. Justice (Rtd.) Prof. Jackton Ojwang, whose four years of visionary leadership have been nothing short of transformative.
To Prof. Ojwang, my deepest gratitude for your dedication and unwavering service. And to Mr. Wanga, we look forward to a new chapter of growth and excellence under your stewardship. Together, we continue shaping the energy sector.”

Re-awakening Kendu Bay Town, the Once Entertainment Capital of Nyanza, Through Water Infrastructure

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By Anderson Ojwang

Kendu Bay, the once entertainment capital of Nyanza, is waking up from decades of slumber and water insecurity despite being only three kilometers from the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, Lake Victoria.

Kendu Bay—famed for the once prestigious Kendu Bay Agricultural Show, which attracted musicians and bands from all over the region and the country—went into economic slumber with the collapse of cotton farming, lake transport, and the agricultural show.

However, the show has waned and disappeared over the years, and efforts to resuscitate it by the Homa Bay County Government have been a cropper. Today, the showground is a mere relic of its illustrious past, as is the old pier that used to be an important port of call for steamers and ships from as far as Uganda and Tanzania.

The town became a ghost town, with few investors preferring it as a destination, while other traders relocated to upcoming towns in the region.

Water insecurity became a common feature in the town, and various attempts to supply it with water had not yielded positive results.

But Kendu Bay started rising, with investors in real estate and hospitality preferring it as an investment destination, leading to the eventual opening of a Kenya Commercial Bank branch in the town.

Kendu Bay town is now bubbling and waking up with the completion of the Kokwanyo Water Treatment Works, implemented by the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation.

“Despite being a lakeside town, Kendu Bay has for years struggled with access to clean and reliable piped water, forcing most residents to depend directly on the lake for their daily needs,” said Internal Security and Administration Permanent Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo.

Omollo said the long-standing water challenge is now being addressed through the completion of the Kokwanyo Water Treatment Works, implemented by the government and completed in February 2025.

“The project is now fully operational and awaiting commissioning. This is a milestone and will spur economic growth in the region,” he said.

He said the water project draws its raw water from the Awach Kibuon River, which flows by gravity into the treatment plant, where it undergoes a comprehensive purification process, including flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, and storage in a tank.

“From there, treated water is pumped to a 2,000-cubic-metre reservoir tank at Ndiru, ensuring consistent supply and pressure for distribution,” he said.

Omollo said the intervention has significantly transformed water access for Kendu Bay town and its surrounding communities, providing clean and safe water to rural households, schools, and health institutions.

Residents said the water project will help address rampant water-related diseases and improve the health and economic well-being of the community.

They thanked President William Ruto for the project, terming it a milestone in the development of the town and the empowerment of the local community.

Currently, Kendu Bay has been witnessing an upsurge in investments in real estate and is steadily witnessing growth in other business sectors.

Is Energy CS Wandayi Courting the Luo Council of Elders and Leaders to Be Coronated as the Luo Kingpin?

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By Anderson Ojwang

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi could be on an overdrive to be installed as the Luo Kingpin in an emerging political dispensation in Nyanza following the recent death of Raila Odinga.

In what can be seen as a calculated move to checkmate other community leaders interested in the kingship, Wandayi has gone full-blown for the battle to edge his competitors.

Wandayi could be enjoying support from some powerful quarters and is strategically repositioning himself.

The CS is currently viewed as the possible heir apparent and the most significant politician in the government from Siaya County, and a staunch supporter and confidant of ODM party leader Dr. Oburu Odinga.

Previously, Raila controlled Luo politics and determined the politics of the region; however, he failed to groom any leader to take over from him, and this has created a vacuum which has subsequently resulted in the scramble for the kingship.

Wandayi, in a move to galvanize the support of the Council of Elders and seek their endorsement, on Monday held a discussion with Ker Odungi Randa at his home in Nyando, Kisumu County.

Wandayi posted on his X handle: “Tête-à-tête with the spiritual leader of the Luo nation, Ker Odungi Randa.”

In a post by one of his aides, Jerry William Ochieng Sando wrote on his Facebook page: “This morning, Waziri had a tête-à-tête with the Luo Council of Elders Chair, Ker Odungi Randa.”

But Randa, when contacted by the writer, denied having met Wandayi on Monday and claimed to have met him several months ago.

“Where did I meet CS Wandayi? Not my home. Where? I last met Wandayi when he visited my home with Nyakach MP Aduma Owuor several months ago. The CS did not come to my home on Monday. I am not aware of any photo we took together on Monday,” Randa said.

But Randa encouraged community leaders interested in inheriting Raila’s political empire that they were free to do so and to consult with him.

“Wandayi and even you are free to battle it out for the kingship. A leader will eventually emerge, and we encourage everyone to fight it out, Wandayi included,” he said in a telephone interview.

Wandayi has been holding discreet and private meetings with political leaders from Nyanza and is claimed to be sponsoring some of the aspirants for various parliamentary and other elective political seats ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The recent declaration by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi at a function in Sori, in Nyatike Constituency, over his intent for the community leadership and presidency in 2032 has ignited more fuel in the scramble.

Equally, the decision by the Siaya Senator to take sabbatical leave from the campaigns could also have informed the battle for the kingpin to go full-blown.

Oburu wrote on his X handle: “Feeling grateful for good health and high spirits. Taking a short sabbatical to recollect, recharge and reset.”

Mbadi declared his intent to inherit Raila’s political constituency to seek the 2032 presidency and urged for the community’s support.

“I want to say that Raila’s shoes are so big for me to wear. I, Mbadi, cannot fit in Raila’s shoes, but what I know is that I will make shoes that fit my legs. I am ready and making shoes that fit my leg and already have started to follow Raila’s footsteps and journey to Canaan.
How many are ready to go to Canaan with me? We can only go to Canaan through President William Ruto, and that is why in 2032, I will be vying for presidency. Nobody will bring you the presidency at the comfort of your home. That is why I must traverse every corner of the country and build networks and friends. I must give my people hope. We don’t want to waste time. I want only one seat — the presidency in 2032 — and I will win,” he said.

Two years ago, Oburu Odinga, now ODM party leader, had endorsed Wandayi to be future leadership and described him as Raila’s student.

“Opiyo ne owacho na wach moro. To ne anyise ni gima ineno no. biro miyo idhi mabor e siasa ka. Opiyo ne okona ni jok moko osiko penjo ni raila wacho ango. Dak omiyowa direction. opiyo ongeyo somo body language mar Raila. Opiyo nigi future mar telo e kenya ka. Opiyo rieny a riemya. Jatelo ok yier ga. Onge kuma ne oyiere raila. Jatelo ti ka obwol. Kendo opiyo ose ti kaka obwolo. Wan wase wene.”

Opiyo has been leading a team from Siaya County that checkmates the area Governor James Orengo, who blows hot and cold on the broad-based government.

Sources revealed that powerful figures could be behind the move to coronate Opiyo as the kingpin in an expected political realignment in the region.

Notice Issued: Mudavadi or Natembeya — Who Will Blink First in Luhya Politics?

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By Anderson Ojwang

For the last two decades, Luhya leadership and politics have revolved around Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and the Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula.

Various attempts by political minnows from the region to alter the political equation have been unsuccessful, often with huge political consequences for the plotters.

However, the emergence of the Tawe Movement under Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya is ruffling feathers and threatens to destabilize the political equation within the Luhya community’s leadership structure.

With Thursday’s by-elections in Malava constituency and Chwele–Kabuchai ward, the dice is cast, and it will be interesting to watch the battle between the old guards and the younger generation.

Mudavadi has been leading campaigns for the UDA candidate Ndakwa, while Natembeya has been the engine behind the DAP-K candidate Seth Panyako.

Mudavadi recently put Natembeya on notice and warned that he risks losing his Trans Nzoia gubernatorial seat in the 2027 general election.

“Mwaka wa 2027, bwana Natembeya, tunakuletea candidate. We are coming for you. Tutakuwa na candidate kule Trans Nzoia, wewe utaenda nyumbani. Wewe ni term moja. Umeingia tu alafu unafikiria umeshinda Weta, umeshinda Mudavadi, umeshinda hawa watu wote. Sisi pia ni wanasiasa. Mtu asifikirie kwamba atakuja kutuchezea kila mara. We are also experienced. We shall sponsor candidates. We shall have people in every constituency. If you think we are jokers, we are coming for you. I am a politician; I have known to lose and to win. I have woken up to say let the journey begin,” he said.

Mudavadi said Natembeya was acting too clever and overestimating himself, adding that he would face young men and women from the UDA party in the 2027 general election.

“I want to tell Natembeya, don’t act too clever. We have been in politics longer. We are only quiet, but don’t think we cannot do politics. We will take you home in 2027. We have young men and women ready to take over from him,” said Mudavadi.

Mudavadi said the people of Trans Nzoia should relieve Natembeya of his duties so that he can pursue being an elder in every community.

But Natembeya dismissed Mudavadi and Wetangula for failing to fight for the plight and interests of the Luhya community, saying they only pursue personal interests.

“Nyinyi mtakubali watu kutoka county ingine wakuje kutupanga? Wetangula akishiba ni usingizi. Mudavadi akishiba ni usingizi. Ndio imefanya watu wetu wameumia. Tumesema 2027 wanaenda nyumbani ndio tukuwe na uongozi mpya,” he said.
(Will you accept politicians from other counties to control you? When Wetangula and Mudavadi are satisfied, they sleep, and that is why our people continue to suffer. In 2027, we will vote them out and have new leadership that cares about the community.)

He said the presence of Mudavadi and Wetangula in the government has not benefitted the Luhya community.

“Kwa hii serikali, kuna vijana wawili wetu wako ndani. Mudavadi na Wetangula. Tunawaheshimu. Lakini kwa sasa, kama mheshimiwa Rais akifanya makosa, kwa hawa wawili, nani anaweza kumuambia? Ukienda Rift Valley, majirani wetu, mheshimiwa Rais akisema kitu nani anaweza kumpinga?
Ukija Western, watu hupiga kifua eti mimi ni namba tatu kwa serikali. Very useless things. Wamalwa na Moody Awori walikuwa namba mbili. Sasa kwa ujinga yetu tunashangilia tuko namba tatu,” he said.
(In this government, our two leaders are inside — Mudavadi and Wetangula. We respect them. But if the President makes a mistake, who among them can correct him? In Rift Valley, nobody goes against the President. But in Western, we chest-thump that we are number three in government. Very useless. Wamalwa Kijana and Moody Awori were number two. Now, in our ignorance, we celebrate being number three.)

In his last campaign message, Mudavadi told the electorate: “An MP from the ruling party easily accesses government services because of proximity to the President and government functionaries. The late MP Malulu Injendi left you in government; ensure that you stay inside.”

But in a quick response, Kakamega Senator Bonny Khalwale dismissed Mudavadi’s sentiments, saying, “But Sir, you have for over 35 years been right at the core of government as a minister, yet Luhyas don’t see your footprints anywhere in Western.”

Natembeya was recently coronated as Luhya spokesperson by Maragoli elders in a ceremony conducted in Vihiga County.

Natembeya’s endorsement in Sabatia constituency was led by elders from the Maragoli, Bunyore, and Tiriki communities — a symbolic challenge to Mudavadi in his own Vihiga backyard. The elders tasked him with consolidating a regional agenda across Kakamega, Busia, Vihiga, and Bungoma.

Natembeya said at the function: “Our strength lies in speaking in one voice. Western has for long been fragmented by personal interests. It is time to put those divisions aside and work as one Mulembe nation.”

KISUMU COUNTY CONFIRMS FIRST CASE OF MPOX, ISSUES PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT

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By James Okoth

The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has confirmed the first-ever case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in Kisumu County, prompting a swift public health response and heightened surveillance across all health facilities.

In a press statement issued, the County Government said the case was confirmed by the National Public Health Reference Laboratory in Nairobi. The patient, a 42-year-old male, recently travelled from South Sudan and developed symptoms while still in Juba.

According to the department, the patient boarded a Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, departing at 7:00 a.m. and arriving at around 10:00 a.m. Health officials have classified all passengers who shared that journey as potential contacts and are urging them to present themselves at the nearest health facility should they develop any symptoms.

The patient was admitted to Kisumu County Referral Hospital upon arrival and immediately placed under isolation. He remains stable and is receiving appropriate supportive care under close medical supervision.

County Response Activated

The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has activated a coordinated response plan designed to contain any potential spread of the virus.

Key interventions include:

  1. Case Isolation – The confirmed patient remains isolated at Kisumu County Referral Hospital to prevent further transmission.
  2. Contact Tracing – Four close contacts have been identified and placed under active observation.
  3. Enhanced Surveillance – County-wide surveillance has been intensified, with a working case definition shared across all health facilities to guide early detection.
  4. Community and Health Worker Sensitization – Healthcare workers are being trained on case management, infection prevention, and safe handling practices. Public sensitization campaigns are also underway to encourage early reporting and safe caregiving.

County Public Health officials have reassured residents that there is no cause for alarm, but vigilance remains critical in preventing a possible outbreak.

Public Advisory

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close physical contact, including contact with skin lesions, body fluids, contaminated materials, or prolonged face-to-face interaction.

The County Government has urged members of the public to take the following precautions:

●Passengers who travelled on the Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on November 19 (departed 7:00 a.m., arrived 10:00 a.m.) should contact the Emergency Operations Center via the toll-free line 0800 720 575 for guidance.

●Avoid close contact with anyone exhibiting a rash, skin lesions, or unexplained sores.

●Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.

●Do not share personal items such as bedding, towels, clothing, or utensils.

●Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, headache, or a new rash.

●Report suspected cases to the nearest health facility or Public Health Office.

Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials advise that symptoms of Mpox often begin with fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches and fatigue, followed by a rash or lesions that may appear on the face, genitals, or other parts of the body and later progress into blisters.

The County Government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and assured residents that all necessary containment measures are in place.> “Kisumu County KISUMU COUNTY CONFIRMS FIRST CASE OF MPOX, ISSUES PUBLIC HEALTH ALERT
By Staff Reporter, The Standard

KISUMU, Kenya, November 25, 2025 — The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has confirmed the first-ever case of Mpox (formerly known as Monkeypox) in Kisumu County, prompting a swift public health response and heightened surveillance across all health facilities.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the County Government said the case was confirmed by the National Public Health Reference Laboratory in Nairobi. The patient, a 42-year-old male, recently travelled from South Sudan and developed symptoms while still in Juba.

According to the department, the patient boarded a Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on Tuesday, November 19, 2025, departing at 7:00 a.m. and arriving at around 10:00 a.m. Health officials have classified all passengers who shared that journey as potential contacts and are urging them to present themselves at the nearest health facility should they develop any symptoms.

The patient was admitted to Kisumu County Referral Hospital upon arrival and immediately placed under isolation. He remains stable and is receiving appropriate supportive care under close medical supervision.

County Response Activated

The County Department of Public Health and Sanitation has activated a coordinated response plan designed to contain any potential spread of the virus.

Key interventions include:

  1. Case Isolation – The confirmed patient remains isolated at Kisumu County Referral Hospital to prevent further transmission.
  2. Contact Tracing – Four close contacts have been identified and placed under active observation.
  3. Enhanced Surveillance – County-wide surveillance has been intensified, with a working case definition shared across all health facilities to guide early detection.
  4. Community and Health Worker Sensitization – Healthcare workers are being trained on case management, infection prevention, and safe handling practices. Public sensitization campaigns are also underway to encourage early reporting and safe caregiving.

County Public Health officials have reassured residents that there is no cause for alarm, but vigilance remains critical in preventing a possible outbreak.

Public Advisory

Mpox is a viral infection that spreads through close physical contact, including contact with skin lesions, body fluids, contaminated materials, or prolonged face-to-face interaction.

The County Government has urged members of the public to take the following precautions:

Passengers who travelled on the Simba Coach bus from Busia to Kisumu on November 19 (departed 7:00 a.m., arrived 10:00 a.m.) should contact the Emergency Operations Center via the toll-free line 0800 720 575 for guidance.

Avoid close contact with anyone exhibiting a rash, skin lesions, or unexplained sores.

Wash hands regularly with soap and clean water.

Do not share personal items such as bedding, towels, clothing, or utensils.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, headache, or a new rash.

Report suspected cases to the nearest health facility or Public Health Office.

Symptoms to Watch For

Health officials advise that symptoms of Mpox often begin with fever, swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, and fatigue, followed by a rash or lesions that may appear on the face, genitals, or other parts of the body and later progress into blisters.

The County Government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and assured residents that all necessary containment measures are in place.

“Kisumu County Government remains steadfast in its commitment to protect the health and safety of all residents. We urge calm, cooperation and vigilance as we continue monitoring the situation closely,” the statement read.

Regular updates will be provided as investigations and contact tracing efforts continue.

For urgent concerns or additional information, residents are encouraged to call the Emergency Operations Center toll-free line: 0800 720 575.

RAILA’S SISTER, BERYL A. ODINGA PASSES ON

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By James Okoth

The Odinga family has been thrown into mourning following the death of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, the younger sister to ODM leader Raila Odinga and Kisumu Woman Representative Hon. Ruth Odinga, who confirmed the sad news on Tuesday.

In a heartfelt message to the public, Ruth said the family was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of her sister, describing her as a pillar of love, intellect and humility.

“It is with a heavy heart, but accepting the will of God, that we announce the sudden passing of Beryl Achieng’ Odinga, daughter to the late Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma Oginga,” read part of the family statement. “While we are deeply saddened by her demise and the immense void left in our lives, we take solace in the belief that she is safe in the Lord’s arms,” said part of the statement.

A Quiet but Distinguished Life

Though she kept a low public profile, Beryl Achieng’ Odinga led a life marked by distinction in both professional and public service circles. A teacher by training and later a lawyer, she combined intellect with commitment to administrative excellence.

In 2020, she was appointed Chairperson of the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company (NWSC), where she earned respect for her calm leadership and insistence on accountability in public utilities management.

Earlier in her career, Beryl served abroad, including a notable stint in Zimbabwe, where she reportedly made history as the first black Town Clerk of Mutare and later served as Company Secretary for the Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe in a rare achievement for a Kenyan woman of her generation.

The Family and Early Years

Born to Kenya’s first Vice President Jaramogi Oginga Odinga and Mama Mary Ajuma, Beryl was the youngest in the Odinga family. Her upbringing in a household deeply engaged in Kenya’s liberation and governance struggles shaped her sense of discipline and service.

She completed her A-Level studies in 1972 and pursued further education both locally and abroad. Unlike some of her siblings who studied overseas, she once revealed that she attended school in Kenya, sharing a classroom with political figures such as Kalonzo Musyoka and Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o.

A Private Life, a Strong Legacy

Beryl married Otieno Ambala in the mid-1970s and together they had children — Ami Auma, Chizi, and Taurai. Her husband passed away in 1985, after which she continued to focus on her career and family.

Those close to her describe her as reserved but remarkably principled and a woman who valued education, integrity and service over publicity.

Mourning and Tributes

The news of her passing was met with an outpouring of grief from political leaders and the public alike. ODM officials and Kisumu County leaders sent condolences to the family, praising her contribution to public administration and women’s leadership.

Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, who schooled with Beryl, described her as “a brilliant mind and a gracious soul whose humility never diminished her influence.”

Plans for her burial are underway, with the family expected to release a detailed programme later this week.

A Life of Service Remembered

Beryl Achieng’ Odinga may not have sought the limelight that defined many of her siblings, but her journey tells a story of quiet excellence and unwavering commitment to service.

Her passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the Odinga family, one defined not only by politics, but by intellect, discipline and public duty.

As Ruth Odinga said in her tribute, “We are thankful for the invaluable gift of the time we shared with her and for the profound impact she had on all who knew her.”

Why All Eyes Are on the Kasipul By-Election: The Delicate Political Arithmetic

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By Anderson Ojwang

Of the two by-elections in Nyanza—Ugunja and Kasipul constituencies—Kasipul stands out as the most significant and the one likely to determine a new political dispensation in the region and the country.

Kasipul, in Homa Bay County, the bedroom of ODM and the late Raila Odinga, is seen as the yardstick to measure the emerging and delicate political course of the region.

Currently, President William Ruto has been making political inroads in Homa Bay and the wider Nyanza region with a view to inherit Raila’s vote bloc ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Kasipul has the highest number of UDA members, led by vocal political activist Odoyo Owidi, and hosts one of the party’s modern offices in the country.

For ODM National Chairperson and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, this is the battle of her life and a litmus test of her ability to hold the party together during a stormy moment.

Similarly, the by-election marks the beginning of her journey to defend the gubernatorial seat in a post-Raila political matrix, where she will face off with her deputy, Oyugi Magwanga.

Magwanga is leading a strong combined force of professionals and UDA brigades, led by former Nairobi Governor Dr. Evans Kidero and former Migori Governor Okoth Obado, alongside a coterie of disenfranchised political leaders from the region.

Currently, ODM leadership is reading from different scripts—one faction supporting the broad-based government and the other opposing the arrangement.

That is why, when Wanga wrapped up the campaign for the ODM candidate Boyd Were, she said all eyes were on Kasipul constituency, as it would determine whether ODM was dead or still dominant.

Speaking in Kasipul, Wanga said the by-election was a litmus test for the party, with some leaders claiming ODM died with Raila Odinga.

“Everyone is watching Kasipul. Some people have said ODM died with Raila and is buried in Kango ka Jaramogi in Bondo. This is why I implore you to come out and vote for Boyd and the ODM party,” she said.

Over the weekend, former Migori Governor Okoth Obado said ODM died with Raila, was buried in Kango ka Jaramogi, and urged residents not to follow a ‘dead horse’, but to look for other political formations.

Obado said ODM had been split into two and died with Raila.

“Mokuongo ODM cha usekethe kendo osebarore. Koro iseyieche kocha gi koni. Oseyiech ka nanga ka pod itari ni iluwo bange wachni. En koth ma osechue ma orumo wechandori. ODM nnyocha en Raila. Raila ne en ODM. Koro Raila nnyocha osenindo.”
(ODM has been split right in the middle. If you are gullible enough to follow it, that is your problem. It is rain that has ended. ODM was Raila and Raila was ODM. It died with Raila and is buried in Kango ka Jaramogi.)

For Wanga, the storm is thick, heavy, and pregnant with guns blazing aimed at her, now that her political godfather is gone.

She has a battle of a lifetime to salvage her image and political career to survive post-Raila realignment.

Wanga is already facing a stiff challenge from the ODM wing opposed to the broad-based government, a faction that seems to enjoy the support of Siaya Senator James Orengo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, and Secretary General Edwin Sifuna.

She enjoys the support of party leader Dr. Oburu Odinga, Sam Atandi, Junet Mohammed, and Cabinet Secretaries John Mbadi and Opiyo Wandayi, among others.

Wanga has enjoyed a smooth political curve since her entry into politics, rising from women representative to governor.

The race for Kasipul is a two-horse race, pitting Independent Candidate Philip Aroko against Boyd Were, each enjoying the backing of the two political blocs.

Political analysts argue that the seat is crucial for future political realignments.

Analyst George Akongo argues that the by-election will determine the voting pattern—whether the region remains ascribed to the party or is changing trends following Raila’s demise.

“The election will determine whether the electorate remains loyal to Raila and the party, or if a wind of change is sweeping and the community is opening up to other political formations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

It opens the region to a wider political space and allows other parties to invest and compete with ODM on a level playing ground,” he said.

Akongo said Kasipul and Homa Bay were President Ruto’s entry point into Nyanza, and with the creation of the broad-based government, the region may be opening up to other parties.

He says the contest also provides an opportunity to know whether Wanga or Magwanga is in charge of local politics in Kasipul and, by extension, Homa Bay County.

“Who between Wanga and Magwanga has the people’s support and is the possible winner in the next general elections?” he asks.

The by-election will be used as a yardstick to determine whether the politics of inheritance still have space in the emerging dispensation.

State of Sickle Cell Disease in Kenya and Kisumu County

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By James Okoth

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a chronic hereditary blood disorder that affects oxygen flow in the body, remains one of Kenya’s most under-recognized yet devastating health challenges. In Kisumu County, long considered the epicentre of the disease, a quiet transformation is taking place.

At the heart of it all stands the Kisumu Sickle Cell Disease Centre, now fully operational at Victoria Annex in Milimani, a state-of-the-art facility providing specialized care, early screening and advanced therapy for patients once left to suffer in silence.

National Outlook: A Heavy Burden

Kenya records an estimated 14,000 births with Sickle Cell Disease each year, yet without proper care, nearly nine out of ten affected children may not live beyond their fifth birthday. Only a handful of hospitals nationwide have the diagnostic machines and staff needed to identify the disease early.

Experts estimate the economic toll of SCD in Kenya at KSh 1.6 billion annually, mostly spent on treatment, hospitalization and lost productivity. Advocacy groups have urged both national and county governments to declare the disease a public health emergency, particularly in Western Kenya where prevalence rates are highest.

Kisumu County: The Epicentre of the Crisis

Kisumu’s statistics paint a grim picture. Roughly 1.5–4 percent of newborns in the county are born with SCD, while nearly one in five residents carries the trait. Each year, about 500 children under five die from the disease’s complications.

At Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), the numbers are equally sobering. Surviving patients experience an average of five painful crises a year, each crisis lasting between five and ten days and requiring hospitalization.

A Centre of Hope in Milimani

Officially opened in 7th May 2025, the Victoria Annex Sickle Cell Disease Centre has become a symbol of hope and progress. Established by the County Government of Kisumu in partnership with Victoria Hospital and global health partners, the facility provides:

●Early newborn screening for all infants born in the county.

●Comprehensive care for patients, including pain management, counseling and continuous monitoring.

●Advanced blood therapies, including the groundbreaking red blood cell exchange (apheresis) treatment.

●Drug formulation and supply, made possible through a partnership with Yunigen Pharma (USA) to locally produce hydroxyurea, the standard medication that reduces SCD crises.

To date, more than 20,000 children have been screened under Kisumu’s county-wide initiative.

Human Faces Behind the Fight

Dr. Gregory Ganda, Kisumu County Executive Committee Member for Health, has been at the forefront of the SCD response. He emphasizes prevention through awareness and early testing.

“Since this is a hereditary disease, it is important to screen early so that as a child grows, the sickle cell trait is known,” he said. “At the same time, people must be informed that if they marry someone with the same trait, it will result in full-blown sickle cell disease.”

Dr. Ganda has also urges both levels of government to allocate specific budget lines for SCD management.

For many patients, however, the impact of the new centre is deeply personal. Mitchelle Omullo, a Kisumu-based filmmaker and sickle cell warrior, was the first patient to undergo red blood cell exchange therapy at the Milimani facility.

“I am very excited because I feel like the apheresis machine is going to really reduce the number of crises that we are always having,” she said after her procedure.

Omullo has since become a leading advocate for awareness and inclusion, using her platform to dispel myths surrounding the disease.

“We are just like any other normal person,” she said. “It’s just that we have a blood disorder but other than that, we are normal.”

Looking Ahead

Kisumu’s model is now attracting attention from other high-burden counties and the national government. Health experts describe the Victoria Annex facility as a template for county-level response, combining community awareness, accessible care and advanced treatment under one roof.

Still, challenges remain: inadequate insurance coverage, limited supply of hydroxyurea in rural clinics and the need for more trained hematologists.

Even so, the message from Kisumu is clear; Sickle Cell Disease is no longer being ignored. Through leadership, partnerships and local innovation, a county once defined by loss is now shaping Kenya’s future in hematology care.

STRENGTHENING OF POLITICAL PARTIES SHOWS A NATURAL ALIGNMENT TO A PARLIAMENTARY SYSTEM OF GOVERNANCE

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By Billy Mijungu

In recent times, save for Odm and UDA, political parties in Kenya have increasingly strengthened themselves along regional lines. The once-dominant national parties or ruling formations are fading at an astonishing speed. This should remind us that as a country of more than fifty four ethnic communities, we were always bound to negotiate politics as a Nation of Nations. We live in that reality today.

If the current by elections are anything to go by, regional negotiation is now the centre of political competition. What lies ahead is the emergence of even stronger regional political alternatives. Mount Kenya has Jubilee and DP, Nyanza has MDG, UPA and Odm, Western has Ford Kenya and DAP, North Eastern has UDM, Rift Valley hosts KANU, CCM Mashinani and UDA, the Coast has PAA and CPP, while Eastern has Wiper, CCM Maendeleo and MCCP. The pattern is visible and consistent. In a few years, Kenya will be negotiated politically through regional parties rather than national vehicles.

In the ongoing by elections, and looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, there will be little or no reflection of a truly national party. Odm and to some extent UDA remain the only exceptions, but even they are increasingly defined by their strong regional bases. UDA will dominate Rift Valley, Jubilee and DP will take Mount Kenya seats, Odm is set to win Coast, Nyanza and Nairobi, DAP is poised to secure Western, while Wiper will consolidate influence in Eastern. This is the new political architecture.

As we await election results, the country must accept that there will never again be a winner takes it all outcome in Kenyan politics. This reality strengthens the argument that the IEBC should decentralise more robustly, recognising that regional tallies are what will shape national negotiations, not the other way around.

These emerging political movements naturally align with a parliamentary system of governance where parties, coalitions and negotiated majorities matter. Such a system would enhance accountability within Parliament and provide clearer political responsibility. Kenya needs a President elected from the majority coalition in Parliament, supported by a Deputy President, a Prime Minister with two deputies and a structured cabinet. That is the direction the country must move toward, and it will require constitutional reform to effect.

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