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President William Ruto and his Ugandan counterpart Yoweri Kaguta Museveni have been installed as Luo elders.

The two Heads of State were installed at Got Ramogi on Thursday, January 2, 2025, during the Piny Luo Festival, which has been running in Migwena in Bondo.

Ruto and Museveni’s installation was presided over by Luo Council of Elders Chairman Odungi Randa.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who was present during the event, appreciated the two presidents for gracing the festival, which honours Luo culture.

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— Raila Odinga (@RailaOdinga) January 2, 2025

Museveni shares gifts

Speaking after his installation, Museveni renewed the push for the formation of the East African Political Federation. He noted that the federation would be key to push regional development.

He called for the leaders of the East African Community to unite and achieve the goal of regional prosperity.

Museveni further gifted the Luo Council of Elders Chairman Odungi Randa a picture present which portrayed the founding president of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania during their meeting in 1963.

“This was in 1963 when Mzee Kenyatta, Nyerere, and Obote met in Nairobi and declared the Federation of East Africa,” Museveni stated.

He further used the platform to reaffirm his commitment to supporting Raila’s African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship candidacy.

Museveni reiterated that Raila’s experience is key to achieving meaningful achievement in the continent.

On his side, President Ruto appreciated Museveni for honouring his invitation to attend the festival. Ruto argued that his attendance showed his commitment to fostering regional unity.

Raila, on his side, maintained that African countries needed to open their borders to facilitate free trade. He argued that free trade is among the key ingredients that elevate the continent and free it from the shackles of debt burden.