Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has renewed discussion about ethnic political mobilisation in Kenya after defending his appeal for the Luhya community to remain united ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Natembeya questioned why efforts to promote political unity among the Luhya are frequently labelled tribalism, while similar forms of community-based political mobilisation involving other ethnic groups do not always attract the same level of criticism.
The governor cited several political leaders whose influence has grown within their respective communities as examples of how political alliances have increasingly developed around ethnic and regional identities.
He argued that the Kalenjin community has, to a significant extent, rallied around President William Ruto, while some members of the Kikuyu community have increasingly associated themselves with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Natembeya also mentioned Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i when discussing political support and alignments involving the Kamba and Kisii communities.
Through the comparisons, the governor appeared to question what he considers an uneven approach to discussions surrounding ethnic political organisation. His argument was that calls for unity within the Luhya community should not automatically be viewed as an attempt to promote division or hostility against other Kenyan communities.
Instead, Natembeya portrayed his position as an effort to encourage members of the Luhya community to identify their political priorities, organise around shared interests and strengthen their collective influence as the country approaches another election cycle.
His comments come at a time when political activity is intensifying across Kenya, with leaders from different regions exploring alliances, building grassroots networks and positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.
Community-based political mobilisation remains a sensitive issue in Kenya because ethnic identity has historically influenced electoral alliances and voting patterns. Calls for unity along ethnic lines therefore continue to attract debate over their potential political implications.
Natembeya’s remarks are expected to add to the wider national conversation about regional mobilisation, political alliances and representation. As parties and individual politicians continue preparing for the 2027 contest, questions surrounding community interests and political organisation are likely to remain central to discussions about Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
The governor’s position has consequently placed renewed attention on how political mobilisation should be understood when different communities organise around leaders, shared interests and regional influence.