MOMBASA, Kenya—National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Kenyans to reject tribal politics and embrace national unity, warning that ethnic divisions and politically sponsored violence pose a threat to the country’s stability and development.
Speaking in Likoni, Mombasa County, during a fundraiser for the Salute Community-Based Organisation (CBO), Wetang’ula said Kenya’s future depends on leaders and citizens placing national interests above ethnic and political considerations.
“Kenya is bigger than any individual, and leadership comes from God. Our focus must remain on uniting the country as we work towards becoming a first-world nation,” he said.
The Speaker stressed that all communities are equal and should be given an opportunity to participate in national leadership, cautioning against attempts to divide Kenyans along tribal lines.
“There are no small or big tribes in Kenya. Every community has a right to lead this nation. We must compete politically during elections, but once the contest is over, we should come together and work for the common good,” he said.
Wetang’ula also condemned what he described as a growing trend of politicians sponsoring violence through hired gangs, saying such actions undermine peace and democratic competition.
“There is an unfortunate trend where politicians are hiring goons to disrupt our hard-earned peace. We must reject such behavior and protect the stability of our country,” he said.
The Speaker further praised former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for what he termed a demonstration of statesmanship after the 2022 General Election, saying putting the country first had contributed to the formation of the broad-based government.
His remarks were echoed by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who said the Coast region would not support politics founded on tribal divisions.
“The Coast is a cosmopolitan region and has always embraced unity. Kenya has made significant progress in moving away from the outdated politics of ethnicity,” Kingi said.
Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho also backed calls for inclusivity, saying all communities deserved equal opportunities in national development and leadership.
Wetang’ula made the remarks during a fundraiser hosted by Likoni MP Mishi Mboko to support the purchase of a bus for the Salute CBO. He praised community-driven initiatives and highlighted the role of women in advancing social and economic development.
The Speaker’s comments come amid growing calls from leaders across the political divide for peace, tolerance and national cohesion as the country experiences heightened political activity.
