Omugusii leaders led by Nairobi County Assembly Majority Whip Moses Ogeto address the press on March 11, 2025/HANDOUT
Speaking in Nairobi on Tuesday, the leaders led Nairobi County Assembly Majority Party whip Moses Ogeto, former Nyamira Senator Kennedy Mongare says the heckling was orchestrated by intolerant politicians who do not mean well for the Gusii community.
Raila was reportedly heckled together with other leaders after launching new Shabana FC kits last weekend by a crowd opposed to the broad-based approach taken by the ODM Party.
"We, the leaders from the Omugusi Community, want to condemn with the strongest terms possible the heckling witnessed on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Gusii Stadium in a football tournament event graced by Raila Amollo Odinga. We want to make it vividly clear that the unfortunate heckling witnessed at the event was orchestrated by intolerant politicians who do mean good for the community.’’ Ogeto said in a statement.
We further states that the Gusii Community supports Raila's decision to join the broad-based government. They have, on the other hand asked the Gusii community to remain steadfast, saying Odinga has the mantle to unlock to development infinities in the region.
‘‘We are urging members of our community to remain steadfast behind ODM Party and its ideals. As stated by Shabana FC Raila is a great supporter of the team and we shall continue to embrace him so that our community can benefit at large.’’ The leaders added.
Meanwhile, Shabana FC has distanced itself from the act, saying the event graced by Odinga was a success and the heckling witnessed was an isolated case.
“Our objective was to launch our three-set 2025 kits, increase our visibility, enhance our brand and celebrate our heritage, culture and relationships with different stakeholders. We are proud to say that we achieved this exemplarily. However, as a club, we would like to categorically distance ourselves from any isolated incident that may have occurred during or after the event," Shabana said.
"Shabana FC upholds the highest standards of respect, unity, and appreciation for all our supporters, stakeholders, and leaders who have stood with us through the years. We take this opportunity to sincerely apologise to Baba, the Right Honorable Raila Amollo Odinga, our esteemed leaders, and our loyal supporters for any situation that may have taken away from the great spirit of the event.”
