Welcome to Nyanza, but don’t provoke us, MPs warn Gachagua
Nyanza-based MPs have warned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against using his upcoming visit to the region to attack local leaders or political parties. The lawmakers emphasized that the region is politically independent and will not accept instructions on how to vote.
Why it matters
The warning highlights ongoing political tensions and the struggle for regional influence in Kenya ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
ODM MPs from the Nyanza region, led by Seme MP James Nyikal, addressing journalists at Bunge Towers on August 26, 2026 /DOUGLAS OKIDDY
MPs from Nyanza have cautioned former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua against making remarks they say could inflame political tensions in the region ahead of his planned visit.
The lawmakers, led by Seme MP James Nyikal, said Nyanza would welcome Gachagua like any other Kenyan leader but warned him against using his tour to attack the region or disparage political parties and leaders from the area.
The MPs took issue with Gachagua’s recent remarks, accusing him of making statements they said were disrespectful to Nyanza and amounted to disparaging the region's political party.
“While Gachagua is entitled to pursue his political ambitions and seek support in every part of Kenya, he must understand that Nyanza is neither politically naïve nor afflicted by collective amnesia,” Nyikal said.
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