Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga was treated to a hostile welcome when he visited Gusii Stadium on Sunday, March 9, 2025.
Raila was greeted with ‘Ruto must go’ and ‘Raila must go’ chants when he stood to speak.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati had a difficult time calming the crowd as he attempted to introduce the dignitaries present at the event, with the crowd turning restless when Raila’s name was mentioned.
In an unexpected turn of events, residents could also be seen walking out of the stadium in large numbers once Raila took to address those present, in what was an open show of disapproval.
The hostile reception seemingly follows Friday’s move by ODM to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with President William Ruto’s UDA.
The decision did not sit well with a section of ODM leaders and supporters.
Kisii has traditionally been a perceived Raila stronghold.
The signing of the MoU was preceded by Raila’s countrywide consultations with party members in his traditional support bases to gather views on his next political move.
Raila and Ruto said the MoU was aimed at addressing Kenya’s social, economic and political challenges in 2025.
