A section of lawmakers from the Western and Nyanza regions have declared they will no longer support street demonstrations, arguing that the political focus must shift toward development and maximizing opportunities within the national government.

The leaders spoke during a fundraiser at Yogo Catholic Church in East Ugenya Constituency, Siaya County, where they addressed congregants on the region’s political direction and development agenda.

David Ochieng (Ugenya) urged communities aligned with the broad-based government to reject street protests, advising them instead to focus on securing meaningful development projects to improve livelihoods.

Ochieng stated that the local community is not interested in demanding the Deputy President position.

Instead, he argued, the focus should be on landing key Cabinet portfolios and influential state offices that directly translate into increased resource allocation and improved service delivery.

The legislator also took a swipe at Siaya Governor James Orengo, accusing him of attempting to lure residents back into street demonstrations.

Ochieng maintained that confrontational politics would not advance the interests of wananchi, urging leaders to embrace dialogue and development-oriented leadership.

Calls for peace

Uriri MP Mark Nyamita, who was the chief guest at the event, echoed Ochieng’s sentiments, noting that the current political landscape presents an ideal opportunity to collaborate with the national government to accelerate regional development.

Nyamita further cautioned politicians against exploiting young people as political goons during campaign seasons.

He urged leaders across the political divide to conduct peaceful campaigns, calling for the youth to be empowered through education, employment, and economic opportunities rather than being incited to violence.

Luanda MP Dick Maungu supported the call for unity, urging residents to reject divisive politics and back initiatives aimed at strengthening the local economy.

Former Busia Woman Representative Florence Mutua also backed the stance, calling on residents to maintain peace and work closely with leaders to advance living standards.

The church fundraiser brought together political figures, clergy, and members of the public, with speakers collectively emphasizing peace, unity, and responsible leadership ahead of the next political cycle.