Former Kenyan Ambassador to Turkey, Hon. Kiema Kilonzo, has joined Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua in strongly criticizing the idea of aligning the Kamba community with the GEMA (Gikuyu, Embu, and Meru Association) bloc, terming it as outdated and counterproductive.
In a sharp rebuke, Kiema questioned the legitimacy of such tribal groupings, stating, “Where did Kambas meet to agree to join GEMA? Or is this a clique using tribal alliances for political expediency?” He argued that Kamba leaders pushing for the association are out of touch with the aspirations of a united Kenya.
Kiema emphasized the need for a forward-thinking approach, declaring, “We are in the 21st century, and we want our children to grow up as Kenyans, not confined to tribal identities. These are leaders who are bankrupt of political ideas.”
The remarks follow Dr. Alfred Mutua’s call for the Kamba community to avoid aligning with tribal groupings like GEMA and instead work towards consolidating their influence in government while promoting a national outlook. Mutua had earlier expressed his intent to organize the Kamba nation within the government framework, urging them to focus on unity rather than tribal affiliations.
Kiema further warned that aligning the Kamba community with GEMA at this time could amount to political suicide. “Why now, when Mt. Kenya has already been in government for a decade? Are they using Kambas as a bargaining tool because they feel they are in opposition?” he posed.
He urged the Kamba community to embrace a broader national identity, calling for the abandonment of tribal politics. “The politics of tribal balkanization is long gone. Let us join other Kenyans in building a united nation instead of being lured into divisive tribal groups,” he added.
The debate underscores the growing tension around the role of tribal alliances in Kenya’s political landscape, with leaders like Kiema and Mutua championing a break from traditional ethnic-based politics.
