BONDO, Kenya – Kisii Governor Simba Arati has reignited debate over Kenya’s disputed presidential elections, questioning why former Prime Minister Raila Odinga was not sworn in as president after the 2022 General Election despite claims by his supporters that he had won previous polls.
Speaking during the first anniversary commemoration of Raila’s death at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, on Thursday, October 15, Arati revisited the 2007, 2013 and 2017 elections, asserting that Raila had won those contests but was denied the presidency.
“In 2007, Raila won, but people swore him in at night, and the people who did that are here,” Arati said.
He also disputed the outcomes of the 2013 and 2017 elections, claiming Raila had won both contests even though former President Uhuru Kenyatta was sworn in.
“In 2013, Baba won the election, but Uhuru was sworn in by force. In 2017, Uhuru again was sworn in by force when we had won,” he said.
Arati then turned to the 2022 election, questioning why Uhuru, who was still president at the time, had not facilitated Raila’s swearing-in if the former opposition leader had won, as his supporters maintained.
“In 2022, the question that we are asking ourselves is, he (Uhuru) had all the powers, he had the government, why didn’t he swear in Baba? That is what we are asking ourselves,” he said.
“Let him (Uhuru) give us a break.”
Arati’s remarks were political claims made during the memorial and do not alter the officially declared results of the elections.
Arati Urges ODM Members To Close Ranks
Beyond the election debate, the Kisii governor called for unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), saying Raila had left the party intact and members should focus on strengthening it rather than engaging in internal disputes.
“Those of us in ODM, let us not bring in issues. Raila left us in ODM. Anyone who wants to leave, we are asking you to come back so that we can build ODM,” he said.
He nevertheless said members who wanted to leave were free to do so, criticising those he accused of allowing political sponsors to influence their decisions.
His remarks come amid divisions within ODM over the party’s political direction and its relationship with the government ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Arati Thanks Ruto For Honouring Raila
Arati also thanked President William Ruto for according Raila respect, despite the two leaders having belonged to opposing political camps for much of their careers.
“Asante kwa kutupea heshima na kupatia Baba heshima,” he said, thanking the President for honouring the late former Prime Minister.
Arati added that ODM was part of the government and was prepared to form the next government in 2027.
President Ruto and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta did not attend the Bondo commemoration, according to the information provided.
Leaders Gather To Remember Raila
The event brought together political leaders, members of the Odinga family and supporters to mark one year since Raila died on October 15, 2025, while receiving treatment in India.
The anniversary has also become a platform for political figures to reflect on Raila’s legacy, debate ODM’s future and outline their positions ahead of the next General Election.
