Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo and his Kisii counterpart Simba Arati met on Sunday, December 21, in a meeting that resolved the two leaders should work together in advocating the interests of the Gusii Community.
In a major political shift that affect Gusii region’s 2027 politics, Nyaribo, who recently survived an impeachment motion, was hosted by President William Ruto’s Broad-based Government proponent Arati, who is also the Orange Democratic Party (ODM) Deputy Leader.
The brief ceremony to receive Governor Nyaribo was held at Arati’s Motonto home, signaling a possible shift in regional power dynamics, while affirming Governor Arati as the region’s political spokesperson.
Governor Nyaribo’s UPA Party, previously aligned with Matiang’i, appears to be recalibrating its political status, not only in Gusii region but Kenya at large, following the failed impeachment motion against its party leader at the Senate.
Arati’s might?
Central to this realignment, insiders say, is Nyaribo’s increasingly cordial engagement with Arati. Notably, Nyaribo is reported to have paid a courtesy visit to Arati ahead of his impeachment hearing, a move widely interpreted as an acknowledgment of Arati’s political leverage within the Broad-Based Government.
Speaking after the meeting, Governor Nyaribo emphasised on the need for unity among leaders of the region.
“Our community is stronger and better together when, we the leaders, stand united for a common course,” Nyaribo said. “Thank you Governor Simba Arati for hosting a joint meeting of the people of Nyamira County and Kisii County… as one of the ways of cementing Gusii Unity.”
On his part, Governor Arati insisted that Gusii region forging a united front heading into the 2027 polls is the key to unlocking massive benefits for the people of Kisii and Nyamira counties.
“Omugusii unity is our core business our sacred heritage and unbreakable belonging… As a community, our unity is our strength, our muscle, our unstoppable force.”
Arati added: “It is my firm belief, as the Governor of Kisii, that forging this united front is the key to unlocking massive benefits for our people defending them fiercely and uplifting their living standards to new heights.”
The perception that Arati’s influence played a role in neutralizing the impeachment threat has further reinforced speculation of an emerging political alliance.
This evolving relationship has reshaped the Kisii political landscape, increasingly framing it as a contest between two dominant regional figures: former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i and Governor Simba Arati. Both are viewed as political heavyweights with competing visions and influence in Kisii and the wider Gusii region.
Governor Arati has been vocal in advocating for a unified Kisii political front. His outreach has extended even to former political adversaries, including National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro and other leaders aligned with the Broad-Based Government. This strategy appears aimed at consolidating political support, minimizing dissent, and reinforcing ODM’s long-standing dominance in the region.
Historically, Kisii and Nyamira counties have been ODM strongholds, a reality Arati seems determined to preserve and expand. His aggressive defense of the party’s dominance, coupled with increased visibility and grassroots mobilization across major towns, has sparked debate over his long-term political ambitions.
Meanwhile, Matiang’i’s influence in the region appears to be facing headwinds as ODM and its allies consolidate their hold. The unfolding dynamics point to an intensifying struggle for political supremacy in the Gusii region, with implications that could extend well beyond local politics.
