Former Cabinet Minister Sam Ongeri has called on politicians from the Gusii community to shun divisive politics.

Ongeri, a former Kisii Senator, urged the leaders to put aside their differences for the good of the community.

He also cautioned against being used by external forces to wreck the unity of the community and undermine local leaders. “I am pleading with our leaders to stop the political witch hunt and mudslinging against those who have declared their interests for national political seats from our community, particularly the seat of presidency,” he stated.

“As a community, we have no choice but to rally behind our son, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, who has shown interest in running for presidency in the next elections,” he added.

He was reacting to reports that Gusii leaders and professionals are divided over who between Matiang’i or retired Chief Justice David Maraga to support for the presidency.

Advocate Dennis Matara Abincha, who spoke to People Daily, also gave an assurance to the Kisii community and Kenyans that Maraga will be on the presidential ballot come the 2027 elections.

“I want to authoritatively be quoted that the retired judge Maraga will be on the presidential ballot. We have had deeper and elaborate consultations about it, and very soon a bigger pronouncement will be made about it,” Abincha stated.

However, the majority of the leaders from the community, led by Prof Ongeri, Senator Richard Onyonka, Governor Amos Nyaribo and advocate Danstan Omari, have declared that Matiang’i could be carrying the community’s flag.

Nakuru Town West MP Samwel Arama, who comes from the Kisii community, yesterday said Matiang’i was the community’s undisputable candidate for the seat.

“I have a lot of respect for our son Maraga, but on the issue of politics and presidency, I don’t think he could make it. I am asking those misleading Maraga that he could win the presidency to stop doing so. Let us all join hands and support Matiang’i,” Arama stated.