Junet Defends Ruto’s Grassroots Tours, Responds to Orengo’s Criticism of President’s Roadside Rallies

By Ahmed Salat Ali |Political Affairs 

Suna East Member of Parliament Junet Mohamed has strongly defended President William Ruto’s frequent tours across the country, dismissing criticism from Siaya Governor James Orengo over what he termed “sunroof politics.”

Speaking on Monday, March 23, in Uriri, Migori County, Junet accused Governor Orengo of mischaracterising the President’s outreach efforts. Orengo had earlier criticised Ruto for addressing crowds while standing through vehicle sunroofs during his tours, arguing that the Head of State should instead remain in office and focus on governing.

However, Junet defended the President’s approach, saying direct engagement with citizens enables a leader to better understand the needs and concerns of the people.

“The President must move around and meet Kenyans where they are. Leadership is not about sitting in an office the whole day. It is about listening to the people and understanding their challenges,” Junet said.

The legislator further argued that leaders who remain confined to their offices risk losing touch with the realities facing ordinary citizens.

In a controversial remark, Junet referenced the late former President Mwai Kibaki, claiming that leaders who rarely interact with the public struggle to communicate their achievements to the electorate.

“He said President Kibaki sat in the office and worked. That may be true, but he did not go out to meet the people and explain what he had done for them,” Junet stated during the rally.

Junet also criticised former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of failing to remain responsive to the concerns of ordinary Kenyans during his tenure.

At the same time, the Suna East MP dismissed assertions by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that votes from the Nyanza region alone could not secure a presidential victory.

“I heard him claiming that Nyanza votes cannot make anyone the President of Kenya. Shetani Ahindwe! In 2027, he will understand that the Luo vote can indeed influence who becomes the Head of State,” Junet said.

Meanwhile, President Ruto continued his criticism of the opposition, branding it the “Useless Opposition” and “Alternative Nothing,” while warning that Gachagua and his political allies should not be allowed back into positions of power.

The President is currently on a four-day development tour of the Nyanza region. During his visit to Migori County, Ruto commissioned the Piny Owacho Hospital and laid the foundation stone for the Mabera Modern Market as part of the government’s push to expand healthcare and improve trade infrastructure in the region.

The tour is widely seen as part of the President’s broader effort to consolidate political support in Nyanza ahead of the 2027 General Election.