Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke has sparked heated debate over the Kamba community’s political future, arguing that remaining in the opposition is a disadvantage.
Speaking during the Kitui Branch KUPPET General Meeting in Mutomo, Mueke declared that the Kamba people are the only major ethnic group outside government, warning that this weakens their ability to compete and access development opportunities.
“We (Kambas) are the only major community that is not in Government. The truth of the matter is we cannot be able to compete, our children cannot compete if our leaders keep on telling us to stay in opposition and to refuse Government development projects,” Mueke told the gathering.
‘We Must Join Government Like Raila and Atwoli’
In a direct appeal to the Kamba electorate, Mueke cited Azimio leader Raila Odinga and COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli, emphasizing that they always find a way to align with the government of the day.
“It is in Government where all these development programs are shared. We must emulate COTU SG and Raila Odinga, who are always in Government. There is a reason why these leaders will always join the Government of the day,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when Ukambani politics is heating up ahead of 2027, with the region’s de facto leader Kalonzo Musyoka maintaining his opposition stance under the Azimio la Umoja coalition.
A Political Divide in Ukambani?
Mueke’s sentiments have drawn mixed reactions, with some leaders supporting his call for realignment while others see it as an attack on Kalonzo. Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua, a close ally of Kalonzo, dismissed the statement, saying:
“Development is a right, not a favor. No one should blackmail us into joining government.”
On the other hand, Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has hinted at the importance of working with President William Ruto, signaling that some leaders in Ukambani are open to a shift.
Is Mueke Preparing the Ground for a Political Realignment?
With the 2027 elections looming, Mueke’s push for the Kamba community to abandon the opposition could signal a deeper strategy within Kenya Kwanza to woo the region. The big question remains—will Kambas heed Mueke’s call and move towards the government, or will they remain steadfast behind Kalonzo?
