Raila Odinga has warned Kisumu County Members of Parliament that their disunity threatens the development plans that the national government has launched in the region.
He noted that the county has so much potential but the unwillingness to work together with the government was its biggest impediment.
He also urged the residents to welcome President Uhuru Kenyatta when he makes his first visit since the historic handshake.
He was speaking during a tour of the region in preparation for the president’s visit that is scheduled for December 13.
The former Prime Minister had been tasked with making sure that Uhuru's tour of Kisumu is smooth and well coordinated.
Raila detailed the events that occurred before the handshake and explained that just as they had decided to put the past behind them, the residents should also not harbor any grudge against Uhuru.
He also took the opportunity to urge the region's leaders to work together for the benefit of their constituents.
Odinga faulted the legislators' plan to increase their salary and allowances, especially at a time Kenyans are faced with high cost of living.
Other politicians from the county have also called for residents to make the president feel at home when he gets there.
Muhoroni MP Onyango Oyoo stated, “We appreciate his visit and he will be surprised how he will be welcomed in a region many perceive to be hostile to him.”
Siaya Senator James Orengo has made a political pronouncement regarding the president’s visit by claiming that it will affirm Uhuru’s support for Raila’s presidential campaign in 2022.
Uhuru is expected to launch the Universal Health Coverage that has been piloted in Machakos, Isiolo, Kisumu, and Nyeri counties.
