Let's focus on what binds us for a bright future

Since the peak of the Gen Z protests and the aftermath of June 25, 2024, a feeling of political disillusionment has permeated in different regions of the country.  Our nation, once a beacon of hope and resilience in Africa, is trapped in a cycle of political hostility, economic frustration, and social and political fragmentation.

With two and a half years to the next elections, political intolerance, self censorship due to fear of retaliation for criticising the government, economic hardships and tribal rhetoric further deepening apathy across the country.

As patriotic and active citizens we must ask themselves, how can we get back to the hope we felt in various moments of our political history? History has taught us a crucial lesson: when Kenyans unite for a common cause, we achieve the unimaginable. Our political history is rich with moments where unity transformed the nation.

In 2002, the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC) ended the 24-year rule of Kanu. That election was not won by one individual—it was won by the people of Kenya, who chose to rise above tribal politics and personal interests to demand change. Mwai Kibaki, supported by a coalition of leaders, became president because Kenyans prioritised national progress over sectarian divides.

Even in the face of tragedy, Kenyans have demonstrated that standing together is our greatest strength. The 2007/08 post-election violence was one of our darkest periods. Yet, the peace negotiations that followed, led by Kofi Annan, were successful because leaders recognised that continued division would only spell doom for the country. The Grand Coalition Government emerged.

Today, we find ourselves in another moment where unity is not just an option—it is a necessity. The People’s Liberation Party (PLP) brand reveal by Martha Karua has signaled possibility of bringing together opposition leaders and citizens who believe in justice, democracy, and good governance. It is also a chance for those not clear on their ideals to take a firm stand for the good of the country. 

At a time when the current regime has shown blatant disregard for the rule of law, increased violation of human rights and economic policies that burden ordinary citizens, the PLP’s call for unity of purpose presents an opportunity to galvanise the country towards change.

Uniting opposition leaders is not just about electoral strategy; it is about restoring the dignity of Kenyans. The divisions among opposition parties in the past have only served to strengthen the forces of oppression. A fragmented opposition gives the ruling elite free rein to govern without accountability. But history has proven that when opposition figures come together under a shared purpose, they can dismantle even the most entrenched political structures.

Kenya is grappling with a cost-of-living crisis, runaway corruption and rising public debt. These are not Luo problems, Kikuyu problems, Kamba problems, or Kalenjin problems. They are Kenyan problems. No single community or individual will be spared from the economic hardships that continue to grip the nation. That is why we must resist the temptation to fall into the trap of ethnic and political divisions stoked by those in power.

It is time we focused on what binds us together rather than the small, fleeting issues that divide us. This is not about individuals or political parties—it is about the future of our nation. The time has come to rise above petty distractions of division and focus on what truly matters: a Kenya that works for all its citizens. The question is not whether the opposition can unite; it was answered during the brand reveal of the People’s Liberation Party. The question is whether it will maintain its unity.

-The writer is a political communications specialist