‘If Kisii needs change, you must exit too!’ MCAs tell Arati

Several Members of County Assembly (MCAs) in Kisii have criticized Governor Simba Arati, urging him to include himself in the leadership changes he is advocating ahead of the 2027 General Election. Governor Arati called for the selection of fresh leaders, including a new Senator, Woman Representative and MCAs, urging residents to elect candidates who prioritize service delivery.

However, the MCAs, led by their chairperson Bouse Mairura, argue that the governor should also undergo the same scrutiny he is advocating for others. Mairura stated that Arati should be prepared to leave office if he believes Kisii needs new leadership, as it is unfair for him to demand the removal of others while remaining in power.

The exchange follows Arati's remarks at the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) in Kisii town, where he encouraged residents to vote for new leaders in the upcoming elections. The governor, who is the deputy leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), emphasized the need for leaders committed to development rather than political confrontations.

However, the MCAs oppose Arati's administration and demand his exit, turning his call for changes into a broader debate over his performance. The controversy comes amid growing tensions between Arati and Senator Richard Onyonka, who campaigned for the governor in 2022 but has emerged as a potential challenger for the governorship in 2027.

Onyonka has suggested that opposition aspirants could negotiate a single candidate against Arati, possibly leading to a united challenge. Other politicians, such as former Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu and Omingo Magara, are also mentioned in discussions surrounding a possible opposition alliance. The political disagreements between Arati and Onyonka have become more public since the 2022 elections, with both disputing each other's leadership approaches and the management of county affairs.

The demand for a change in leadership extends beyond the governor's office to other elective positions, with the upcoming August 2027 General Election expected to scrutinize incumbent leaders' development records, political alliances, and accountability.