Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s call for unity within the Kikuyu community has drawn criticism, with some labeling it as tribal. However, this perspective overlooks the broader context of Kenya’s political landscape, where regional unity is a common and strategic practice.
Other communities, such as the Kamba under Wiper’s Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka and the Luhya under Musalia Mudavadi’s ANC and Moses Wetangula’s Ford Kenya, have demonstrated the power of unity. These regions have leveraged their collective strength to negotiate effectively for resources and political influence. Gachagua’s critics fear a similar united front from Mt. Kenya, which would undoubtedly shift the balance of power.
A cohesive Mt. Kenya would advocate more effectively for development projects and resources, ensuring that their region’s needs are met.
A united Mt. Kenya also threatens the status quo maintained by leaders who benefit from division and infighting. By presenting a formidable political bloc, Mt. Kenya could disrupt existing alliances and weaken the influence of leaders who rely on fragmented support bases.
Furthermore, unity would enhance transparency and accountability, challenging those who prefer to operate without scrutiny.
In essence, Gachagua’s call for unity is a strategic move to ensure Mt. Kenya’s strong political representation and equitable access to national resources. Criticizing him for this stance while other communities practice the same undermines the principle of equal representation and regional empowerment in Kenya’s democracy.