By Duncan Waswa
August 5, 2025- As Kenya’s political landscape begins to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, conversations around ethnic unity and regional representation are intensifying. At the heart of this realignment debate is the Luhya community—a populous yet historically fragmented group whose political influence has often been diluted by internal divisions.
Speaking during a community dialogue forum in Bungoma, Eng. Daniel Mukhonge, Secretary General of the Luhya Unity Restoration Forum, issued a passionate call for political unity among Luhya leaders. He emphasized that the region must stop fragmenting along tribal and county lines and instead adopt a united political front to effectively influence national decision-making.
“For years, we have allowed ourselves to be divided by political parties that do not prioritize our interests,” Mukhonge said. “Now is the time to form a regional political vehicle—one that carries the true aspirations of our people.”
The Cost of Division
Despite their significant numbers, the Luhya community has repeatedly failed to secure meaningful national influence—a reality Mukhonge attributes to a lack of political cohesion.
With over five million registered voters spread across Kakamega, Bungoma, Vihiga, Busia, and parts of Trans Nzoia and Nairobi, the Luhyas are one of Kenya’s largest voting blocs. Yet, the region has never produced a president nor consistently held strong bargaining power in post-election governments.
“We have the numbers, but we’ve never used them as a unified force. That’s why we keep complaining after every election that our people were left out of major government appointments and development plans,” he said.
A Call for Strategic Voting
To change the tide, Mukhonge is calling for a shift in how the Luhya community engages in national politics. He urged voters to move away from blindly supporting national party agendas and instead vote strategically as a bloc.
“We must learn from other communities like the Kalenjin and Kikuyu, who have historically rallied behind common political directions and secured key government positions,” he noted.
He proposed the creation of a regional political coalition or party that would serve as a bargaining tool during national negotiations, especially in the lead-up to 2027.
“Without a united front, we will always be used as ladder-holders to power, but never get to the top ourselves,” he warned.
Signs of Political Awakening
Mukhonge’s remarks come at a time when younger, more progressive leaders from Western Kenya are beginning to forge development-focused alliances across party lines. Governors, senators, and MPs from the region have shown signs of collaboration on issues like infrastructure, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
Political analysts believe this could mark the beginning of a political awakening among the Luhya. However, they caution that real progress will require unity of purpose and discipline.
“For the Luhya unity dream to become a reality, leaders must be willing to sacrifice personal ambitions and embrace a collective strategy,” said Philip Wekesa, a Bungoma-based political analyst.
“What we need is political discipline, negotiation skills, and above all, a common vision.”
Wekesa warned that without a focused plan, calls for unity risk being hijacked by individuals pursuing short-term political gains.
“It’s not just about forming a party—it’s about building a sustainable political institution that can shape Kenya’s leadership for years to come,” he added.
Looking to 2027
With less than two years to the general election, political mobilization is gaining pace across the country. For the Luhya, the coming months may prove pivotal in determining whether they can finally break the cycle of internal competition and fragmentation.
Mukhonge is optimistic. He believes that if a unified strategy is adopted now, the Luhya community could emerge as a formidable force in 2027—potentially producing a deputy president, a prime cabinet secretary, or even a presidential candidate.
“Unity is not just a slogan; it is a pathway to power and progress,” he said. “If we speak with one voice, we can no longer be ignored. But if we remain divided, we will continue to watch others lead while we follow.”