Kisii County Governor Simba Arati has issued a candid assessment of the region's political destiny, warning former Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang'i against leaning heavily on opposition politics. Speaking on the shifting dynamics following recent attacks on the Omogusii community by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Arati positioned himself as both a protective brother to Matiang'i and a pragmatic advocate for national unity. The governor cautioned that isolation within the opposition offers limited political returns, arguing instead that the community's numerical strength can only translate into meaningful power through deliberate strategic bridges with other regions.
Navigating Political Missteps and Misleading Inner Circles
Addressing the internal frictions dividing leadership in Abagusii land, Arati revealed that self-serving advisers have systematically driven a wedge between him and Matiang'i. He highlighted his long-standing personal commitment, recalling how he facilitated Matiang'i's return from abroad and sheltered him during challenging political times. "I made him come from USA; when he was tormented by the government when Gachagua was DP, I stood with him," Arati stated, pointing out the hypocrisy of those now surrounding the former CS. He stressed that "people around him are lying to him" regarding his presidential viability within opposition ranks. The governor emphasized that while the community holds significant voting leverage, successful political bids require assembling a broad, multi-ethnic coalition rather than relying solely on local backing: "We have numbers, but we need cooperation with other communities. Fred requires the support of other communities."
Calling Out Gachagua and Safeguarding Regional Stability
Turning his attention to broader national politics, Governor Arati pulled no punches when addressing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's divisive rhetoric against the Abagusii people, bluntly stating, "Gachagua is mannerless." Dismissing Gachagua’s warnings of political fallout or instability, Arati reassured the public that any threats of political unrest were baseless. Addressing what lies ahead after the election, the governor firmly declared, "There will be no chaos, and if he brings chaos, he won't go through JKIA."
Embracing Development Over Opposition Politics
Arati grounded his political stance on tangible achievements, offering a strong defense of his working relationship with the current administration. Praising the incumbent's delivery record in Kisii County, Arati asserted that "Ruto has done a lot more than even President Uhuru Kenyatta." According to the governor, aligning with the national government has unleashed massive infrastructure and social projects across Kisii County that directly benefit residents. By choosing cooperation over ideological opposition, Arati reiterated his determination to pull other Kenyan communities toward the Abagusii: "I will always stand with Matiang'i, but for the presidency, we must pull other communities towards us to support us."
