Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga tasked Siaya Governor James Orengo with welcoming President William Ruto to his home turf.
Speaking during his official visit to Siaya County on Saturday, January 14, Orengo revealed that he had a conversation with the ODM boss an hour before Ruto arrived at the event.
He indicated that Raila wanted his arch-rival in the 2022 August 9 polls to feel at home.
"I spoke to Raila an hour ago and he said that I should pass to you (Ruto) his word of welcome and that you should feel at home," he stated.
Additionally, he beseeched the Head of State to have a sitting with the former premier noting that it was important for the country.
Orengo explained that the move would be beneficial in uniting Kenyans after the polls.
However, he acknowledged that it did not have to be a case of the handshake as was in the previous regime.
"I ask you in the spirit of brotherhood and togetherness, not in the spirit of the handshake, to seek your brother Raila and sit together. The elections are over. For the good of Kenya, come together," Orengo advised.
The Governor also thanked Ruto for the economic development promises that he had made in the region indicating that the Head of State promised to see to it that Nyanza was developed just like other parts of the country.
On his part, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed gratitude at the warm reception the Kenya Kwanza team had received in Raila's backyard.
He maintained that the government was open for all adding that the region would be considered in future appointments.
"I know that the President is very happy with the way you have welcomed us and all those requests to have more appointments have been heard," he stated.
Raila was not present at the event as he had traveled to South Africa on official duty.
