Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has firmly dismissed allegations that he played a role in organizing the heckling of ODM leader Raila Odinga at Gusii Stadium, a dramatic incident that has sent political shockwaves through the Azimio la Umoja stronghold.
Odinga, who was attending an event in Kisii, found himself at the center of a hostile reception, with sections of the crowd—largely comprising Shabana FC fans—booing and chanting in defiance. The unexpected backlash has sparked heated debate about the shifting political landscape in Kisii, a region long considered loyal to the former Prime Minister.
In a statement, Onyonka distanced himself from the chaos, asserting that he was away in Mombasa on official duties at the time. “I had no hand in what transpired at Gusii Stadium. The claims that I organized the heckling are baseless,” he stated, emphasizing that Shabana FC’s fans have always been passionate and should not be dragged into political games.
While condemning the heckling as regrettable, the senator also offered a sharp political assessment, warning that the incident should not be dismissed as a mere act of disruption.
“This should serve as a wake-up call. The political dynamics in Kisii are evolving, and leaders must recognize the growing resistance to Raila Odinga,” Onyonka remarked.
His statement has further fueled speculation about a potential rebellion brewing within Odinga’s traditional support base in Kisii. Could this be an isolated incident, or does it signal deeper cracks in the ODM stronghold ahead of the 2027 elections?
As the dust settles, one thing remains clear—Raila Odinga’s grip on the Kisii vote is facing an unprecedented test.
