By JOSIAH ODANGA: Former Alego Usonga MP and 2027 Siaya Senate aspirant Sammy Weya has called on political leaders in Luo Nyanza to embrace dialogue and reject violence and intimidation amid reported incidents of political unrest in Homa Bay.

Weya said reports of violence, intimidation and the alleged hiring of goons were disturbing and should concern leaders and residents across the region.

He contrasted the current political environment with the period under the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, saying political differences were previously managed through greater engagement, tolerance and dialogue.

“We must not allow our politics to degenerate into the use of goons, destruction of businesses, intimidation of citizens, or disruption of road and lake transport simply because of political differences,” Weya said.

He urged Luo Nyanza leaders to hold a frank and collective conversation on the region’s political future, naming governors Anyang’ Nyong’o, James Orengo, Ochilo Ayacko and Gladys Wanga, alongside Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, as leaders who should spearhead the initiative.

Weya warned that failure to manage political differences through dialogue and democratic competition could weaken the region’s influence and collective bargaining power in the emerging political dispensation.

He said leaders could pursue different political ambitions and belong to different parties without becoming enemies.

“Luo Nyanza needs dialogue, unity and strategic leadership, not goons, violence and political intolerance,” he said, urging leaders to put the interests of residents above political differences.