Former Rangwe MP Martin Ogindo has called for tolerance among leaders in Nyanza to avert tension and conflicts that may arise from inflammatory statements.

Ogindo yesterday castigated Siaya Governor James Orengo over his utterances on the ruling party officials in the region. Orengo had been quoted in the recent past indicating no UDA party officials will speak in functions he attends.

The condemnation follows the ejection of Ugenya MP David Ochieng and former Rarieda MP Nicholas Gumbo during a burial in Siaya county attended by Orengo and Raila Odinga, the ODM party leader.

“Luo Nyanza must be made aware that ODM is attempting to isolate them from political competition using threats of violence and intimidation,” said Ogindo, reminding Luo Nyanza not to be used to fighting costly political wars that only benefit ODM political leaders.

Ogindo’s statement follows an intensified plan for Nyanza residents to support the Kenya Kwanza administration activities in the region. He said there is a big shift in Nyanza politics following the last general election.

He said the region is now pegging their hopes on Kenya Kwanza administration after Raila Odinga who enjoys support from the region failed to clinch the presidency.

“We cherish Raila Odinga as the symbol of our historical struggle into political mainstreaming. The Nyanza region has however shifted their allegiance to Ruto’s government because that is where they can place their hope as a community,” claimed Ogindo.

He said their campaign to have the region back Ruto’s administration is informed by the development initiatives the government has initiated in the region. He went ahead to explain that Ruto shares political history with the Nyanza community.

The politician claimed Raila can no longer inspire the younger generation and that is the reason he may not garner the prerequisite support for presidential bid across the country should he decide to vie in the next election.

“Ruto has spent more time in Luo Nyanza than all his predecessors combined. This means he has good intentions for the regions and he needs our support wholeheartedly,” said Ogindo.