By Faith Anene, Bungoma
As President William Ruto prepares to embark on a development tour of Kakamega County later this week, Shinyalu Member of Parliament Fred Ikana has urged leaders in the region to maintain political discipline and unity during the visit.
The President is expected to begin his tour on Thursday, where he will inspect and commission several development projects across the county, including those in Shinyalu Constituency.
The highly anticipated visit is expected to draw major political figures from the region amid growing competition among local leaders.
Speaking at Solyo Secondary School in Shinyalu, MP Ikana called on fellow leaders to set aside their political rivalries and instead focus on advancing the development agenda for the people of Kakamega.
“This is not the time for our politicians to showcase their political loyalty or engage in unnecessary political drama,” he said. “It is the right moment for us as leaders to help our citizens realize development and guide them on how to rise out of poverty. The President’s visit should unite us in purpose, not divide us through petty politics.”
Ikana noted that the government’s ongoing investment in infrastructure, education, and agriculture offers Kakamega a unique opportunity to attract greater national attention if leaders speak with one voice.
He urged political players to ensure that the President’s visit proceeds peacefully and remains focused on delivering tangible benefits to residents.
His call for unity was echoed by Kakamega County Woman Representative Elsie Muhanda, who warned supporters of various political camps against engaging in confrontations during the President’s tour.
Muhanda emphasized the need for respect, tolerance, and cooperation among leaders, saying the county stands to lose if development forums are turned into political battlegrounds.
“Let us maintain peace and order. President Ruto’s visit is an opportunity for us to showcase the development potential of Kakamega and attract more government investment. Our supporters must stop the heckling and insults that have become common during public events,” Muhanda said.
Her remarks come amid growing rivalry among supporters of Governor Fernandes Barasa, Senator Boni Khalwale, and Muhanda herself, all of whom have declared interest in the 2027
