Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made a compelling case for the Luhya community, also known as the Mulembe Nation, to unite and leverage their significant numbers to form the next government.

While addressing the Mulembe Nation on radio stations broadcasting in Luhya vernacular, Mr Gachagua made remarks that have sparked a crucial conversation about the political future of the Luhya people.

This move appears to be part of a broader mission to unite other communities against his former boss, President William Ruto.

For many years, the Luhya community, like other communities that have not taken advantage of their numbers, has been fragmented, diluting their political influence and bargaining power.

Mr Gachagua's assertion that they have historically settled for political "leftovers" is a stark reminder of the missed opportunities due to a lack of unity.

He stated, “It is sad that a large community like the Mulembe Nation is settling for leftovers. Why should such a populous group rely on pity and generosity when it has the numbers to lead? That does not make sense.”

By aligning with the Mount Kenya region, as suggested, the Luhya can create a formidable political force capable of shaping the future of the nation.

Mr Gachagua emphasized, “You have the numbers—this government is yours for the taking.”

Reflecting on the 2002 election, where the Luhya community played a pivotal role in ending KANU's rule, it is evident that their collective strength can bring about significant change.

Mr Gachagua recalled, “We are about to have another 2002 moment—just as the Mulembe Nation was part of the government then, it can once again help form the next administration. We are on the brink of another such moment, and it is imperative that we seize this opportunity to ensure our voices are heard and our interests represented.”

The Luhya community is the second-largest ethnic group in Kenya, with a population of approximately 6.8 million people, accounting for about 14.3 percent of the country's total population.

The community is composed of several sub-tribes, including the Bukusu, Maragoli, Banyala, and others. The Bukusu are the largest sub-tribe, accounting for almost 30 percent of the entire Luhya population. This significant demographic presence underscores the potential political power that can be harnessed through unity.

Mr Gachagua's call for unity is not just about political strategy, it is about recognizing the Luhya's potential and taking collective action to secure a better future.

The former DP implored the Luhya community, stating that they have the numbers, the talent, and the determination to lead. It is time they came together, put their numbers on the table, and demand their rightful place in the next government.

As former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala prophesied in October 2024, President Ruto will face significant political upheaval, which he will live to regret.

Mr Malala stated, "Watch this space," suggesting that major changes were imminent.

His prophecy appears to be coming to pass.

Mr Gachagua is making moves that suggest he is reaching out to all tribes in Kenya in a quest to form a formidable coalition to remove Dr Ruto from power.

Last week, he attended Eugene Wamalwa's Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) headquarters launch, along with other senior political leaders.

In a country where tribal affiliations play a significant role in politics, this is not a move to be underestimated.

Soon, we may see Mr Gachagua addressing the Kisiis, the Kambas, the Luos, the Kuria, the Coastal tribes, and all the tribes in Kenya in a quest to strengthen them before they eventually come together as a strong coalition to send Dr Ruto home.

The challenge will be who will be their flagbearer. However, with compromising candidates like Fred Matiang'i from the small Kisii tribe, Mr Gachagua could lead Kenya to elect a president from a small tribe for the first time. Let us watch this space.

By Nyangenya Bwomanga – Eminent Peace Ambassador UN