Let us reclaim a democracy that transcends tribe

Former DP Rigathi Gachagua during a political rally at Mulu Mutisya grounds in Machakos town on May 30, 2025. [John Muia, Standard]

The enduring definition of democracy is that it is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. This noble philosophy forms the very foundation upon which Kenya’s constitutional order is built.

That is why, every five years through universal suffrage, every citizen has the right to choose their leaders. This act confirms that “power to the people” means power to the whole nation. More than six decades after independence, Kenya is still grappling with an uncomfortable truth: tribalism remains the most powerful currency in our politics. From campaign platforms to government appointments, ethnic identity often trumps merit, vision, or national interest. It is more problematic when perpetuated from the top.

When a president takes office, they do not become the leader of a tribe; they become the custodian of a nation. Their first obligation must be to rise above tribal loyalties. This is not merely a moral duty—it is a legal and constitutional mandate. Policies, appointments, and distribution of resources must be driven by equity and national interest, not kinship or political debt.

But this responsibility is not the President’s alone. It is unfair to burden the leader without calling out the community from which they hail. The pride of a community should come not from how their “son” or “daughter” rewards them, but from how well that leader serves the nation. Entitlement must give way to principle.

Kenya’s development record is, unfortunately, a template of unequal distribution of the national cake. Regions seen as politically aligned with those in power often benefit disproportionately, whether through infrastructure, services, or access to opportunity.

Breaking this cycle demands transformative leadership. Kenya needs a president bold enough to be fair even when fairness is unpopular. A leader willing to be a pariah among their own people until they understand the long-term vision. A leader prepared to serve only one term if that is what it takes to steer the country onto a different path. That is rare, but it is what we need.

History offers compelling examples. Even Jesus was not always accepted in his hometown. His mission was bigger.  This is not just a challenge to leaders, but to communities who wield the so-called tyranny of numbers. It is only through their magnanimity that we can give birth to a truly inclusive nation.

Yes, it is possible for Kenya to be led by a Pokomo, Dorobo, or any other smaller community, as long as we reject the idea that the presidency is a constituency whose representative resides in State House. The onus is on those in power today to demonstrate that this ideal is possible.

We must move beyond politics of handshakes, the Building Bridges Initiative, or broad-based governments. While none have yet delivered the desired outcomes, they show that we recognise the problem. What remains is the will to create a new Kenya.

Elections should be an opportunity to change or endorse good leaders. And by the very fact that we share a country, aren’t we all cousins?