The Chairman of the Luo Council of Elders, Odungi Ranga, has come under intense scrutiny following remarks perceived as pressuring the Luo community to back President William Ruto's 2027 re-election campaign.
During a prayer and thanksgiving event organized by Homa Bay Woman Representative Dr. Joyce Osogo, Ranga warned that members of the Luo community who defy calls by ODM leaders to support Ruto could face curses.
Calls for Apology or Resignation
Several Luo elders have condemned Ranga's statements, labeling them divisive and inappropriate for a cultural leader. Moth Aroko, Vice Chairman of the Greater Rachuonyo Elders Forum, urged Ranga to apologize or step down, emphasizing that cultural elders should remain neutral and unite the community despite political differences.
Aroko stated: "Elders should be neutral persons. What Ker Odungi Ranga uttered is an unfortunate statement. I'm kindly requesting him to apologize to Kenyans and Luos at large. Saying that if you cannot follow our leaders, you will be cursed is unacceptable."
Community Leaders Reject Threats
Other prominent elders, including Alfred Ogao and Larence Airo, accused Ranga of neglecting his cultural responsibilities. They advised the Luo community to disregard the curses, affirming that no individual holds the power to curse others based on political choices.
The controversy highlights tensions within the Luo cultural leadership regarding political alignments ahead of the upcoming general elections.
