[President Uhuru Kenyatta addressing residents of Mbita. Despite being an opposition stronghold, Uhuru was given a rousing welcome. Photo/Nation]
In what was a total contrast of people’s expectations, President Uhuru Kenyatta received a rousing reception in Mbita on Wednesday when he toured the region.
Being part of Luo-Nyanza, the region is expected to yet again vote for opposition presidential candidate Raila Odinga.
But Mbita residents took to the streets of the Lake side town to hail Kenyatta’s development record in the region despite being a perceived hostile region to him.
“I have come here and I am thankful that you have come in numbers so that we share. My main agenda is to promote development across the country,” he said.
He added: “My differences with Jakom (Raila Odinga) are ideological. At a personal level, we are great friends and that is what Kenyans should embrace.”
Conspicuously, none of elected leaders showed up despite the President launching a multibillion bridge that links Mbita and Rusinga Island.
Recently area senator Otieno Kajwang warned DP William Ruto against accompanying the president but despite the DP’s attendance, all went on as planned.