Former Roots Party deputy presidential candidate Justina Wamae has challenged political leaders from the Mt Kenya region to rethink their approach to national politics, arguing that ethnic-based strategies no longer guarantee influence in future elections.
In a statement posted on X, Wamae said the region’s voting strength can only translate into real political power if supported by alliances that cut across communities.
Wamae explained that relying on regional numbers alone risks weakening Mt Kenya’s bargaining position in national contests.
She estimated the region’s share of the national vote at roughly 22 percent, noting that the constitutional threshold of 50 percent plus one requires additional support from outside the area.
Her remarks come as succession discussions and coalition talks begin to surface ahead of the next general election.
The Mt Kenya region has traditionally held significant sway in national politics, shaping coalition-building efforts and producing multiple heads of state.
However, political analysts have observed growing debate internally over how the region should position itself in future formations, especially after divisions seen in the 2022 polls.
Wamae’s intervention adds a new voice to that conversation by urging leaders to prioritise policy engagement rather than tribal alignment.
In her statement, Wamae criticised attitudes she described as dismissive toward other communities, warning that such messaging deepens divisions between rural voters, urban residents and the Kenyan diaspora.
She said this posture creates an impression of a region unwilling to cooperate nationally, which could ultimately reduce its influence. According to her, “collaboration and working with other Kenyans is key” to remaining relevant.
Wamae also drew attention to Kenya’s history of post-election instability, citing the 2007–2008 crisis and the resulting grand coalition government.
She noted that while political leaders reconciled, many affected families never received compensation for lost property or lives.
She further referenced the 2018 handshake and later political realignments as examples of elite agreements that often leave ordinary citizens bearing the consequences of contested elections.
Her message emphasised the need for a shift toward issue-driven campaigns, saying that policy proposals offer a more sustainable foundation for national progress.
Wamae urged voters to reflect on why elections matter and how electoral choices shape the country’s long-term direction.