In a significant political statement, the Anzauni Clan has submitted a heartfelt petition to President William Samoei Ruto, calling for urgent government intervention to address the persistent socio-economic challenges faced by the Kamba community. Framed as a plea for inclusivity and equity, the petition was delivered through the clan’s Patron, Augustus Kyalo Muli, and speaks to the frustrations of a region that feels left behind despite its pivotal role in the 2022 General Elections.
This petition places the spotlight on the Ukambani region, known for its vast population and strategic importance, yet grappling with issues such as stalled national projects, inadequate representation in government, and a deep sense of marginalization.
A Community Seeking Inclusivity
The Anzauni Clan begins by underscoring the Kamba community’s contribution to President Ruto’s administration, highlighting the significant support he received from the region. However, they argue that this goodwill has not been reciprocated with proportional representation in leadership.
Currently, the Kamba community has only one Cabinet Secretary representing them, a number the clan deems insufficient given the region’s unique economic and geographical needs. They emphasize that the Constitution guarantees equity and inclusivity in governance and call on President Ruto to appoint additional Cabinet and Principal Secretaries from the community.
Through this move, the Anzauni Clan hopes to secure leadership opportunities for qualified Kamba professionals, whose inclusion in government would not only bring the community closer to the administration but also ensure the region’s pressing concerns are addressed effectively.
Stalled Projects , Stalled Dreams
Beyond representation, the petition paints a grim picture of stalled development projects that have left the region’s potential untapped. The clan points to major initiatives such as dams, roads, and other infrastructure projects that remain incomplete years after their launch.
One such project is the Thwake Multipurpose Dam, envisioned as a transformative source of water supply, irrigation, and power generation for the region. However, delays have turned it into a symbol of unfulfilled promises. Another is the Umaa Dam in Kitui County, which could alleviate the water scarcity that continues to plague residents.
The Kibwezi-Kitui-Mbondoni Road is yet another stalled endeavor that the petition highlights. Designed to connect key economic hubs in the region, its completion would drastically reduce transportation costs, boost trade, and create economic opportunities. Meanwhile, in the more remote parts of Ukambani, the incomplete Mwingi-Kamuwongo-Tseikuru Road has left residents disconnected and struggling to access basic services.
The Anzauni Clan expresses frustration at how these projects, if completed, could have addressed the region’s persistent challenges of poverty, unemployment, and poor infrastructure. Instead, they remain monuments of neglect, eroding public confidence in government initiatives.
A Call For Unity And Progress
The petition goes beyond development and representation to touch on matters of national cohesion. The clan argues that marginalizing the Kamba community risks deepening the divisions in the country. Inclusivity, they say, is not just a constitutional requirement but a moral imperative for building trust between the government and its people.
In their plea, the Anzauni Clan calls for immediate government action to complete the stalled projects while appointing additional leaders from the Kamba community into strategic positions. They assert that these measures would restore the region’s faith in the administration and ensure its meaningful participation in national growth.
According to Augustus Kyalo Muli, this is not just about Ukambani. “This is about fostering national unity by addressing the unique challenges of every region. We believe His Excellency Dr. William Ruto has the goodwill and leadership to make this happen,” he says.
A Political Test For The President
President Ruto now faces a critical moment. The Kamba community’s demands are a reminder of the promises made during the campaign trail, and failure to act risks alienating a key constituency. At the same time, addressing these concerns would showcase his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and equitable development.
This petition adds to the mounting pressure on the government to demonstrate its ability to deliver on its promises, not just to Ukambani but to all marginalized regions in Kenya. For the Kamba community, it is a defining moment — a chance to secure its place at the table and ensure its long-standing grievances are finally addressed.
All Eyes On The State House
As the Anzauni Clan’s petition lands on President Ruto’s desk, the nation waits to see how the administration will respond. Will this be a turning point for Ukambani, or will it join the long list of unfulfilled petitions?