Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohammed has called on the Luo community to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid, describing his second term as the surest path to stability, continuity and a smooth democratic transition once he exhausts his constitutional tenure.
Speaking on Wednesday during the colourful culmination of the Fifth Edition of the Piny Luo Cultural Festival at Rongo University, Ms Mohammed praised President Ruto’s development agenda, saying it had earned him goodwill across communities, including in traditionally opposition-leaning regions.
The event, which drew thousands of participants from across the Luo Nyanza region and beyond, was graced by President Ruto and several national and regional leaders. It marked a major cultural milestone, blending tradition, music, dance, cuisine and dialogue on identity and unity.
Luo Support Anchored on Development
In a speech punctuated by applause from the packed audience, the vocal Migori legislator said the Luo community’s support for President Ruto was informed not by political expediency but by his “proven track record” in delivering development projects and promoting inclusive governance.
She noted that the President’s economic and infrastructure programmes, coupled with his outreach to regions that have historically felt politically marginalised, had resonated with many Luo leaders and residents.
“The Luo community will fully back President William Ruto’s second-term bid because of his demonstrated commitment to development and national unity,” Ms Mohammed said. “Supporting him guarantees continuity and a smooth transition after he completes his constitutional term.”
Pride, Identity and Unity
Ms Mohammed used the cultural platform to affirm Luo identity and values, stressing that the community prides itself on justice, inclusivity and peaceful coexistence with other communities.
“We are a proud community, and we are not ashamed to be called Luos,” she told the gathering. “The difference we have as a community is that we do not use our tribe to intimidate others. We are a loving people. We use every opportunity to unite with others, not to sow discord or animosity. We shine our light through justice.”
Turning directly to President Ruto, she declared the community’s goodwill and political support: “We love you, and we will support your second-term bid.”
About the Piny Luo Cultural Festival
The Piny Luo Cultural Festival is an annual cultural event that celebrates Luo heritage, traditions and identity while promoting unity, dialogue and socio-economic development. Launched to preserve and pass on Luo customs to younger generations, the festival has grown into a major cultural and intellectual gathering in the region.
Activities at the festival typically include traditional music and dance, storytelling, fashion, food exhibitions, academic discussions, and forums on governance, culture and development. By hosting the fifth edition at Rongo University, the organisers underscored the role of institutions of higher learning in preserving culture while shaping progressive national conversations.
Politics Meets Culture
President Ruto’s attendance at the festival was widely viewed as symbolic, reflecting his administration’s efforts to engage communities through cultural platforms and promote national cohesion beyond partisan politics.
Ms Mohammed’s remarks added a political dimension to the cultural celebrations, highlighting shifting alliances and the growing influence of development-based politics in regions once considered politically monolithic.
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