Political Ringside, a show that offers front-row analysis of Kenyan politics. It brings together hosts and guests to discuss current issues, strategies, and changes in the political scene in a direct and open way.
In a recent episode of the channel, host Kevin Waswa sat down with youth political commentator Leakey Ochola to talk about President William Ruto’s efforts to build support in Nyanza region.
The discussion looked at how these moves are creating reactions and possible shifts ahead of the 2027 elections. Nyanza has long been seen as a strong area for the Orange Democratic Movement, or ODM, but recent activities suggest things may be changing slowly.
Leakey Ochola shared his background as someone who comes from a simple family his father was a tailor and how he entered politics after losing a student election. He described his brand as “Son of a Taylor,” which reflects his roots and his focus on everyday people.
In the conversation, he explained that Ruto’s visits to Nyanza and the development projects there are part of a bigger plan. After the 2022 elections, a broad-based government was formed with help from the late Raila Odinga.
Now, with changes in the political environment, Ruto appears to be reaching out to different groups in the region.
The two speakers noted that Ruto’s approach seems aimed at opening up space in what was once a very solid ODM zone. They talked about how some ODM members have shown interest in working with the government side.
This has led to questions about whether the moves are about real inclusion or about positioning for future votes. Ochola pointed out that ODM has been built more around strong individual leaders than around strong party structures. This makes it easier for shifts to happen when those leaders are not as central as before.
One part of the talk focused on zoning in politics. Some older leaders have suggested zoning as a way to protect areas from competition, but Ochola saw this as a problem for democracy.
He argued that it limits choice and stops new voices from coming up. Instead, he pushed for meritocracy, where leaders are chosen based on what they can do rather than who they know or which ethnic group they come from.
The youth, he said, are starting to think more about competence and less about following traditional kingpins.
The episode also covered some government programs that have reached young people. Examples include the Shule Fund for schools and a new funding model for universities that tries to make support more equal.
Health coverage was mentioned as another area where steps have been taken. Affordable housing came up too, though it was noted that some see it as less urgent for certain groups.
Ochola gave credit where he felt it was due but also raised concerns. He talked about feelings that the government sometimes shows a disregard for human life in how it handles issues. He said this affects trust, especially among the youth.
Leakey Ochola made it clear that he would not support Ruto in the next election because of these concerns.
He advised the president to address matters of life and compensation for victims if he wants to win over younger voters. He said the opposition needs to do better by offering clear alternatives instead of just reacting. Without strong direction, it becomes hard for people to see a different path.
The discussion touched on specific names and roles, such as Raymond Omollo in the Interior Ministry.
Ochola defended his competence in the job but questioned the political side of things. He called for space for new leaders to grow without being blocked by old arrangements. The conversation also looked at how youth funds and business support programs have not always met expectations.
Small amounts like 22,000 shillings for starting businesses were given as an example of help that feels too limited.
The episode painted a picture of Nyanza as a region in transition. Traditional loyalties are being tested by new development efforts, internal party questions, and a push from younger voices for different ways of doing politics.
Ruto’s strategy is seen by some as divide-and-rule, while others view it as an attempt to bring more balance across the country.
