NAIROBI, Kenya – Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has strongly denied allegations that he orchestrated a heckling incident targeting former Prime Minister Raila Odinga at Gusii Stadium.
In a detailed statement, the senator dismissed the claims as baseless, reiterating that violence has never been part of his political playbook.
The incident, which saw Odinga met with jeers and chants of “Raila must go”, has sparked heated debate, with fingers pointing at local leaders.
Onyonka: ‘Violence Is Not My Style’
The Kisii senator wasted no time setting the record straight. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Onyonka condemned the chaos, emphasizing his long-standing commitment to peaceful politics.
“For over two decades, I have never endorsed violence or chaos. My constituents know this. I discourage political intolerance and urge everyone to exercise restraint,” he wrote.
Onyonka, who was accused alongside other leaders, also clarified that he was away in Mombasa for work when the incident occurred.
“It is absurd to suggest that I, or my brother Kibagendi, had anything to do with what happened in Gusii Stadium. We were both out on work commitments,” he stated.
The events that happened in Kisii are regrettable- Richard Onyonka says after Raila was heckled in Gusii Stadium
The Shabana FC Controversy
Beyond the heckling allegations, Onyonka took issue with claims that Shabana FC fans—known for their unwavering support—had been paid to attend the match.
“Shabana fans have always shown up for their team without any influence. The suggestion that they were mobilized or paid is not only false but an insult to their passion for the club,” he said.
The senator’s remarks come after a section of political players suggested that thousands of fans at the stadium had been organized to disrupt Odinga’s address.
“Raila Must Go”: Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga encounters a hostile reception at Gusii Stadium in Kisii County.
Raila Faces Hostile Reception in Kisii
Odinga, who had attended the match as a guest, was met with unexpected hostility.
The moment he took the microphone, sections of the crowd erupted in chants of “Raila must go”, while others staged a walkout.
Despite the tense atmosphere, the former Prime Minister proceeded with his speech, unfazed by the reaction.
The incident has reignited debate over Odinga’s political standing in Kisii, a region that has historically supported him.
Whether this signals a shifting political landscape or just a rowdy faction of football fans, the jury is still out.
