The Luhya Dilemma: One Candidate for National Relevance

By: Al  Obulukhu Musasia

As Kenya approaches the next general election, the Luhya community once again finds itself at a crossroads. Will they rally behind a single candidate for the presidency, or will fragmented interests keep them on the sidelines of national leadership? The need for a united front has never been more urgent, especially with leaders like Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya and Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna emerging as strong political figures.

Regional vs. National Appeal: Natembeya vs. Sifuna

Governor George Natembeya has cemented his influence in Trans Nzoia and holds significant sway in Western Kenya. His administrative experience and grassroots mobilization make him a formidable force in regional politics. However, while he has successfully championed local issues, he has yet to develop a national appeal that can attract broader support across Kenya’s diverse political landscape.

In contrast, Senator Edwin Sifuna has already established a presence on the national stage. His eloquence, ability to address pressing national issues, and firm stance on governance reforms have earned him recognition across the country. Unlike Natembeya, Sifuna enjoys widespread appeal beyond Western Kenya, making him a viable contender for a top national seat.

The Cost of Disunity: Lessons from the Past

For years, political fragmentation has plagued the Luhya community. Leaders like Moses Wetang’ula and Musalia Mudavadi have often positioned themselves as regional representatives, yet their efforts have not translated into meaningful national leadership. Their divided ambitions and strategic miscalculations have repeatedly left the community politically stranded—used as a bargaining chip in larger coalitions rather than as a driving force in national politics.

If history has taught the Mulembe Nation anything, it is that disunity leads to political irrelevance. The era of fragmented ambitions must end if the community is to secure a serious stake in Kenya’s leadership.

A Two-Pronged Strategy for Political Success

Rather than fielding multiple presidential candidates, the Luhya community needs a calculated and strategic approach:

Front One National Candidate: A single, well-prepared candidate with national appeal should represent the community in broader political negotiations. Sifuna’s national reach and acceptability position him as a strong contender.

Regional Mobilization and Unity: The second leader—potentially Natembeya—should focus on consolidating the Luhya vote, ensuring the community speaks with one voice. This guarantees not only representation at the negotiation table but also the numbers needed to influence national outcomes.

The Path Forward: Unity Over Individualism

The question remains: Will the Luhya community prioritize collective success over personal ambition? If the goal is genuine representation at the national level, then aligning behind a single strong candidate while another fortifies regional support is the best path forward. Anything less risks repeating past mistakes that have kept the Luhya community from real political power.

The time for fragmented political maneuvers is over. The Luhya nation must decide—will they unite for a common purpose, or will they remain politically sidelined? The choice is theirs.