Mudavadi and Wetangula unsuitable to lead the cause of Luhya unity

As a proud son of the Mulembe Nation, I attentively followed an event that was held recently in Hamisi Constituency, hosted by Vihiga Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala. The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials of the Kenya Kwanza administration including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetangula.

The central theme of the event was fostering unity among the Luhya community. Citing the benefits they have gained through government appointments, both Mudavadi and Wetangula emphasised the importance of political cohesion, urging the Luhya people to unite around President William Ruto.

As the two championed Luhya unity under Dr Ruto’s leadership, a different voice emerged from Lukuyani in Kakamega County. A group of Luhya elders passionately urged legislators from the broader Mulembe Nation to abandon their praise of the President and their allegiance to Raila Odinga. With deep frustration, the elders lamented that neither Ruto nor his long time rival-turned-ally, Raila, had made any meaningful contributions to the welfare of the Luhya community. In a bold call to action, they advised Luhya politicians to break away from Kenya Kwanza and the ODM and instead form a movement that truly embodies the spirit and aspirations of Mulembe people.

It's obvious that the dream of Luhya unity remains elusive, slipping through the fingers of its political leaders who lack the vision, conviction, and strategic foresight to rally, inspire, and empower their people. Their narrow, self-serving interests have alienated them from the true aspirations of the Luhya community, leaving many disillusioned and doubtful of their ability to forge a united front. Unlike the Kikuyu, Kalenjin, Kamba, and Luo communities - whose cultural and political cohesion has granted them immense influence over Kenya’s political and economic trajectory - the Luhya remain fragmented, unable to harness their collective strength into unassailable political capital.

Take senior-most leaders like Mudavadi and Wetangula. Despite their Luhya heritage, they have failed to rise as unifying forces. Their leadership lacks the transformative power needed to galvanise the community, leaving many to question whether they are truly fit to champion the cause of the Luhya unity. Without bold and visionary leadership, the Luhya risk remaining politically marginalised and unable to claim their rightful place in the shaping of the nation’s future.

Firstly, the critical aspect of effective leadership is the ability to comprehensively represent the interests of the community. However, Mudavadi and Wetangula are perceived as prioritising personal benefits over genuine advocacy for Luhya unity. Such behaviour raises concerns about their commitment to a cohesive Luhya agenda.

Moreover, the political landscape in Kenya is riddled with ethnic divisions, and leaders often exploit these divisions for personal gain. Mudavadi and Wetangula have, at times, been implicated in contributing to the fragmentation of the Luhya community rather than fostering unity. By failing to address these internal divisions and instead engaging in politics of convenience as evidenced by their refusal to have one vibrant political party, they undermine the potential for a united Luhya front.

Additionally, effective advocates for Luhya unity must possess the vision and strategies to inspire and mobilise the community towards common goals. Unfortunately, Mudavadi and Wetangula have not consistently demonstrated the ability to articulate a clear and compelling vision for the Luhya people. Their speeches and public appearances often lack the depth of understanding and strategic insight that is necessary to galvanise support and foster a sense of belonging among Luhya citizens. This lack of visionary leadership is detrimental to the cause of unity, as it leaves the community without a clear direction or purpose.

To achieve true unity, the Luhya community should seek leaders who genuinely prioritise their collective interests and demonstrate a commitment to fostering solidarity among the diverse sub-groups within the community.