Ethnic bastions face political turbulence

By Stephen Makabila

Debate continues over the relevance and political future of ethnic groupings as the first General Election under the new Constitution beckons.

Even as elaborate schemes to counter the re-emergence of Gema and Kamatusa are worked out, there are doubts whether such outfits may be politically sustainable.

Gema Cultural Association chair Lawi Imathiu speaks at Limuru II. PHOTO: FILE/STANDARD]

The Gikuyu-Embu-Meru Association ( Gema), which brings together communities around Mt Kenya, is consolidating support for Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta. The Kalenjin-Masaai-Turkana-Samburu ( Kamatusa) group rallies behind Eldoret North MP William Ruto.

Uhuru and Ruto have presidential ambitions, but face trial at The Hague-based International Criminal Court over crimes against humanity.

Political analysts say the two leaders’ attempt to consolidate support through tribal outfits could backfire.

" Gema and Kamatusa are not politically sustainable in the current circumstances unlike long before when people could rally behind their own leaders based on tribal affiliations," said Moi University law lecturer, Titus Bittok.

Lawyer Martin Oloo of the Kenya School of Law says seeking tribal support now is retrogressive, punitive and against the spirit of the new Constitution.

But Constitutional Affairs Assistant minister William Cheptumo argues there is nothing sinister about strategy meetings held by tribal groupings. "The Constitution has not outlawed tribes and there is nothing wrong with communities with similar background and interests congregating to address regional issues," added Cheptumo, the Baringo North MP.

One reason Uhuru and Ruto may find it hard rallying ethnic support for their presidential bid is because there are equally credible aspirants from within their own tribes and regions angling for president. In central Kenya, Gichugu MP Martha Karua (Kirinyaga County), Assistant Minister Peter Kenneth (Muranga County), Safina leader Paul Muite (Kiambu County), and Mutava Musyimi (Embu County) are running for president.

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