Members of the Luo Council of elders./KNA
Two factions of the Luo council of elders have agreed to a memorandum of understanding to end a 10-year rivalry.
A faction led by Mzee Nyandiko Ongadi extended an olive branch to a rival faction led by Mzee Odungi Randa, calling for an immediate truce to end a long-standing leadership row.
Speaking at his home in Kendu Bay, Ongadi emphasised that unity is critical for attainment of development and strengthening the community's position.
He warned that persistent bickering amongst elders’ risks dividing the community.
"It is time to bring the row to an end. All members of the council must speak with one voice," Ongadi said.
He said unity in the Luo community was critical to promote development and ensure that the community speaks with one voice.
He said plans were underway for elders to hold prayers at Got Ramogi, the community's ancestral shrine.
The council split in August 2015 following the death of the then chairman, Ker Riaga Ogalo.
While Ongadi claimed entitlement to the throne as Ogalo’s former deputy, the late Willis Opiyo Otondi was concurrently appointed.
Following Otondi’s death in 2023, Randa was elected during the Piny Luo Festival.
Although Ongadi insists he is the bona fide leader because he holds the council's legal registration certificate, he urged Randa to view him as an ally rather than an enemy.
In response, Randa welcomed the peace talks but firmly rejected relinquishing his position.
He defended his 2023 election at Tom Mboya University, arguing that elders installed him to ensure regional balance, as historical Kers predominantly hailed from Homa Bay county.
"Talks among Luo elders are not a bad thing. We shall call all Luo elders across the region for a peace meeting," Randa stated.
He however accused his rival of wrongfully holding the council’s documents.
