Wantam Protests Hit Ugunja as CS Opiyo Wandayi Loses Support, Youths Invite DCP Led by Rigathi Gachagua

Ugunja youths have taken to the streets in strong Wantam protests, rejecting CS Opiyo Wandayi and his relative, MP Moses Omondi.

The demonstrations show growing anger over broken promises, favoritism, and lack of development.

The protests also signal that Wandayi’s influence in Luo Nyanza is weakening.

The unrest followed a by-election triggered by Wandayi’s appointment to President William Ruto’s Cabinet under the broad-based government.

Wandayi supported Moses Omondi, who previously worked at the NG-CDF office during Wandayi’s tenure as MP. Omondi won the seat, but many youths feel the leadership was imposed on them.

Protests Target NG-CDF Offices

On Monday, youths marched to the NG-CDF offices in Ugunja, accusing leaders of favoritism in allocating opportunities and resources.

They claimed that most benefits went to men, leaving young women sidelined, contradicting earlier promises of inclusive empowerment.

The youths argue that the NG-CDF now serves political interests rather than the broader community, fueling resentment among residents who feel ignored.

Broken Promises and Economic Frustration

During the by-election campaign, leaders promised immediate youth empowerment once Moses Omondi took office.

They pledged support to start small businesses and distribute motorcycles for income generation.

Protesters say leaders failed to deliver. Instead, they handed out empty assurances while unemployment and lack of development persist.

“They benefit directly from government power, but the community is told to wait,” some youths said during the protests.

Rejection of ‘Tutam’ Politics

The demonstrations also reject calls to chant “Tutam,” a slogan tied to a second term for President Ruto.

Youths insist they will not endorse political slogans without tangible development in their constituency.

Some participants said leaders tried to pacify them with small cash handouts, which they described as insulting and dismissive of their economic realities.

Wantam protests erupt in Ugunja, signaling growing resistance in CS Opiyo Wandayi’s backyard as questions mount over his declining influence in Luo Nyanza.

Invitation to DCP Team Led by Rigathi Gachagua

The protesters asked the DCP team, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, to visit Ugunja.

They said they are willing to support leaders who listen to their concerns and prioritize development.

The youths made it clear they do not want anything to do with Wandayi or his relatives.

Wandayi’s Influence Questioned at Home

The unrest strikes at the heart of Wandayi’s political base.

Protesters accused him of imposing a relative without consulting the community, recycling leadership within a small circle.

Youth leaders stated unequivocally that Wandayi will never be accepted as a political kingpin in Ugunja.

They insist that real influence comes from delivering results, not leveraging proximity to power.

Implications for Luo Nyanza Politics

The protests raise questions about Wandayi’s regional standing.

Constituents argue that if he struggles to maintain support at home, he cannot command loyalty across Luo Nyanza.

Some youths declared that resistance in Ugunja is unstoppable and vowed to vote out President Ruto and all leaders associated with Wandayi in upcoming elections.

A Politically Awake Youth Bloc

Political analysts note that the Ugunja protests reflect a broader trend: Kenyan youths are becoming more issue-driven and less tolerant of symbolic politics.

The demonstrations signal a demand for accountability, inclusive development, and leadership that goes beyond slogans.

As the protests continue, attention now shifts to how Wandayi, Moses Omondi, and national leaders will respond to a constituency that clearly refuses to be taken for granted.

Read More: Why the Sh323.8 Billion Kenya-US Health Agreement Is Raising Data Privacy Questions