Junet defends Nyanza leaders’ alliance with Ruto, cites billions in development projects
By Mustafa Juma, January 29, 2026Suna East Member of Parliament (MP) Junet Mohamed has defended the decision by Nyanza leaders allied to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to work with President William Ruto.
The National Assembly minority leader argues that the partnership is already delivering tangible development gains for the region.
Taking to his official X account on Thursday, January 29, 2026, moments after the launch of the NYOTA programme and other development projects in Kisii County, Junet said the economic development of the Gusii region is critical not only to Nyanza but to the overall growth of Kenya.
“Economic development of Gusii region contribute to the overall development of Nyanza region and Kenya. As leaders of Nyanza region under ODM Party, we are working together with H.E the President under the Broad Based Government arrangement to deliver quick gains for Our People,” Junet stated.
Billions of investment
Junet further noted that the government is currently investing billions of shillings in public infrastructure projects across Nyanza, many of which are expected to be completed before the next general election.
According to the ODM legislator, cooperation with the national government was a pragmatic decision driven by the need to address long-standing development challenges in the region.
“The government is investing billions worth of public infrastructure projects we expect to be completed before the forthcoming elections. Joined H.E. President @WilliamsRuto launch NYOTA programme and other development projects in Kisii County,” he wrote on X.
UDA-ODM partnership
Junet’s remarks come days after he revealed that the ODM party is already exploring alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, beginning with ongoing negotiations with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Speaking on the night of Wednesday, January 21, 2026, during an interview with a local TV station, Junet emphasised that while ODM prefers to reach an agreement with UDA, the party remains open to engaging with other political parties should talks stall.
“ODM will be in a broad-based government until 2027, and that’s why, as a party, we have already started negotiations for 2027, beginning with UDA,” Junet said.
“If we don’t reach an agreement, we will engage with other parties.”