By Daniel Otieno and Faith Anene, Kakamega
Top Kenya Kwanza leaders have called on Kenyans to reject tribal politics and embrace national unity.
The leaders who spoke during the 30th anniversary celebrations of Cornerstone Mission Church in Shibuli area in Kakamega County said that tribal politics can could tear the country apart if not contained.
The event, hosted by Lurambi MP and church founder Bishop Titus Khamala, brought together prominent leaders including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, area Governor Fernandes Barasa, Members of Parliament, MCAs, and clergy from across the region.
Over the years, Cornerstone Mission Church has grown to over 40 branches, becoming a significant faith institution in Western Kenya. The event quickly turned into a platform for political leaders to advocate for peaceful coexistence and issue a strong rebuke against tribalism.
“Kenya is a peaceful and developing country. Even the International Monetary Fund has confirmed this,” said Kibet. “We urge all leaders to speak with one voice and lead the country in a positive political direction that unites and empowers all Kenyans.”
Governor Barasa stressed that his administration was committed to inclusive development. “Tribalism has no place in Kakamega’s growth agenda. We are focused on politics of development, not division,” he said.
He added: “It was a noble thing for Members of Parliament to distance themselves from the former Deputy President who has continued to sow division. We support a broad-based government that brings all Kenyans together.”
Ichung’wah warned against leaders who exploit ethnicity for political gain. “There are those who preach unity by day and sow division by night. We must reject anyone who uses tribalism to divide us. Mount Kenya is for all Kenyans, not a political weapon,” he stated.
Bishop Khamala criticized the former deputy president for sidelining leaders from Kakamega, saying his politics of exclusion had failed. “He who discriminated Kenyans on the basis of shares now has no share,” Khamala said. “Those who joined his camp are now folding their tents and returning. We welcome them, but we must reject their divisive message. They are wolves in sheep’s clothing.”
The leaders reaffirmed their support for President Ruto’s administration and vowed to champion unity and development across the country.
Others leaders present were MPs Fred Ikana (Shinyalu), Emmanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), Mary Emase (Teso South) and a host of local MCAs.
