A section of Kisii County residents has launched a scathing attack against leaders of the United Opposition over what it terms as progressing “empty and retrogressive” politics.

Samuel Maranga, speaking on behalf of residents from Gesusu Ward in Nyaribari Masaba, said they were disappointed by recent rallies by opposition leaders across the Gusii region, claiming that they were filled with speeches of hostilities, and abuses against elected leaders.

According to the residents, the Gusii region electorate expected the visiting leaders to present clear-cut policies and practical solutions to challenges facing Kenyans, so that they can position themselves as alternative leadership to the current Broad-based Government but instead, they resorted to abuses and political innuendos.

“As residents of Kisii County, we call for sobriety, restraint, and mature politics. Our county should not be turned into a battleground for personal vendettas,” Maranga said, insisting that residents acknowledge development projects initiated by both the National Government and the Kisii County Government — led by Governor Simba Arati — across various sectors.

The residents also refuted claims by leaders of the opposition that goons infiltrated their rallies, and that several people were injured and lives lost.

“Huwezi kutoka huko mlimani na uje kutupanga hapa Kisii. Mambo ya kusema eti watu walibeba panga na wengine wakauawa huku Kisii hiyo ni uongo,” said another resident.

The also warned the United Opposition leaders to stop imposing their preferred candidates on the people of Gusii region.

“Hao viongozi wa upinzani wanajificha nyuma ya Fred Matiang’i. Matiang’i wewe unapaswa kutafuta kura zako za urais, lakini mambo ya kutuambia nani atakuwa gavana, nani atakuwa seneta, achana nayo kabisa!”