Wanjigi faults Nyanza leaders for 'betraying' their people

Safina Party leader Jimi Wanjigi has launched a scathing attack on political leaders in the Nyanza region, accusing them of betraying the interests of their constituents through what he termed as “selfish compromise” with the government.

Speaking on Saturday during the opening of the party’s new office in Siaya County, Wanjigi criticised leaders who have aligned themselves with the current administration, arguing that such moves undermine the welfare of ordinary citizens.

“Leaders in this region must stop compromising the rights and lives of their people for selfish gain. You cannot align with a government that continues to burden citizens, borrow endlessly, and preside over suffering, then claim to represent the people,” he said.

Wanjigi further warned against what he described as attempts to erode the region’s political identity, invoking the legacy of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

“We will not allow this government to force itself onto the political foundation built by our father Raila Odinga, and dismantle it for selfish gain. The people of this region must remain vigilant. Your leaders are failing you,” he added.

Turning to his 2027 presidential ambitions, Wanjigi framed the upcoming election as a battle of economic ideas, positioning himself as the most capable candidate to steer the country’s economy.

“I will be on the ballot in 2027… no one understands this economy better than me. Not William Ruto or his deputy Kithure Kindiki, even Kalonzo Musyoka and his partners cannot beat me,” Wanjigi said, as he unveiled lawyer Willis Otieno as his running mate.

Otieno, who serves as Safina’s deputy party leader, called for sweeping reforms in public service delivery, particularly in healthcare and education.

“Healthcare and education must be free. These are rights, not privileges. What we are witnessing is a government making money from its own people and not providing basic services. That is unacceptable,” he said.

He also criticised public debt, stating that Kenyans should not bear the burden of loans that do not benefit them.

Safina Secretary General Joakim Simiyu struck a defiant tone, expressing confidence that the current administration will be voted out in the next General Election.

“This government will not see another day in office after the next General Election. The people are awake. Enough is enough,” Simiyu said, urging residents to rally behind the party.

The newly opened Siaya office is expected to serve as a centre for grassroots mobilisation, civic engagement, and policy discussions as the Safina Party intensifies its national expansion ahead of the 2027 polls.