Luo Nyanza region is not to be shoved aside in the fast-approaching 2022 general elections, thanks to the millions of votes the region has to offer in the presidential race.
The region remains among the most rigid and impenetrable in the country and has over time come out as one of those which normally vote towards a specific direction as one block.
Since presidential aspirants for the 2022 polls will obviously be seeking to enjoy a piece if its votes, here is what they should know if they are serious on eating into the Luo Nyanza vote;
1. Raila Odinga
The former Premier remains the kingpin of this populous region and judging by the tribal mode of politicking in Kenya, it goes without saying that the region will be in the camp he will be in.
Therefore, the first and most sure way of scooping the millions of votes the region has to offer will be to have the ODM boss on one's side.
In the unlikely event that he exits active politics before 2022, the vote will go to the candidate who manages to make the region feel included by incorporating notable Luo politicians.
2. Ailing industry sector
Luo Nyanza is among the biggest victims of the worsening state of industries in the country. So far, a good number of factories have been closed, rendering locals jobless.
For instance, the Miwani Sugar Factory in Kisumu has been closed down, with the likes of Kisumu Cotton Mills (Kicomi) also just a mere image of what they used to be.
In South Nyanza, Sony Sugar and the likes are almost collapsing. Actually, the region has very fewer industries running as compared to what was the case 20 years ago.
Therefore, in the event that Raila is not in the presidential race, the vote will go to the person promising to address these matters or the one who appears very likely to tackle them.
While others would argue that these factors can be handled by the county governments, it's worth noting that 10 years since the counties came into view, they remain unresolved.
3. Infrastructure, economy and natural calamities
Talks of regions like Kano (Muhoroni and Nyando constituencies) and people's minds will rush to floods and displacements during rainy seasons, as is currently the case.
This sorry state has been the case since independence and has continued to exist even after the coming of county governments. It also affects parts of Homa Bay county, including Rangwe and Karachuonyo constituencies.
The region will need a government that can bring ideas that will tackle the annual menace, and also deal with its economic issues like the harassment of fishermen in Lake Victoria.
The one with the best idea towards the revival of ghost industrial townships like Miwani, by redirecting roads or railways there, will also be likely to scoop some votes.
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