Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes Geoffrey Ruku has said that the people of Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Embu should not be politically classified under the broader Mt. Kenya region.
Speaking in Meru County, Ruku argued that for many years the political identity of the three counties has been closely associated with Mt. Kenya politics, a situation he said has largely benefited other communities at the expense of the local population.
According to the Cabinet Secretary, residents of Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Embu possess distinct cultural, social and political identities that should be recognized independently. He noted that the counties have often been grouped together with the Kikuyu community in national political discussions and development negotiations.
Ruku claimed that this political classification has, over the years, resulted in national government projects and opportunities being directed elsewhere, while the interests of the people from the three counties have not received adequate attention.
The CS said the time has come for the people of Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Embu to chart their own political path and pursue development opportunities as independent regions with unique priorities and aspirations.
Ruku called on leaders from the three counties to unite and champion issues affecting their residents, adding that a stronger regional voice would help secure more benefits from the national government.
His remarks are expected to spark debate on the political alignment of the Eastern Kenya region, Mt. Kenya region and its role in the country’s evolving political landscape.
