Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga has cautioned that keeping a country in a continuous state of political campaigning blocks development.

Raila made the comment during a meeting with President William Ruto and Gusii leaders at State House on Thursday, September 11, 2025.

“You cannot keep a country in a permanent state of campaign. There are no developments.”

“Inatakikana kama uchaguzi umekwisha watu wanarudi kufanya kazi. Baadaye uchaguzi unarudi siasa tena; watu wanajitokeza wanafanya kampeni. Lakini campaign kutoka year one to year five, hakuna maendeleo inaweza fanyika katika taifa,” Raila said.

Raila argued that when politicians focus on campaigning throughout their term, essential projects and services stall. He emphasised the need for leaders to prioritise governance and the implementation of development agendas, especially in regions that have lagged behind economically.

The statement came during a high-level meeting at State House, which brought together President Ruto, Raila Odinga, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba, and Solicitor General Shadrack Mose. The discussion focused on development initiatives in Kisii and Nyamira counties, where the government has launched a series of transformative projects.

Development projects

President Ruto highlighted several key investments. In Kisii, 15,000 affordable housing units worth Ksh30 billion, modern student hostels valued at Ksh2.5 billion, and four state-of-the-art markets worth Ksh2.4 billion are underway.

In Nyamira, projects exceeding Ksh16 billion include 7,000 housing units, student hostels, and three new markets designed to stimulate trade and economic growth.

In total, over 32,000 homesteads across both counties will gain access to reliable electricity, which the government says will unlock business opportunities and enhance local industries.

Raila’s warning comes at a politically sensitive moment. The Gusii region has historically been seen as a stronghold for former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, who is positioning himself ahead of the 2027 elections. Ruto’s outreach, supported by Raila’s backing for the 2027 race, signals an effort to consolidate support while keeping attention on long-term development rather than political rivalry.