This archive report was first published on 21 June 2020.
On June 21, 2020, Machakos Governor Dr Alfred Mutua spoke out against the practice of forming political coalitions based on tribe, a culture he believes was instilled by colonial masters.
“Truly we gained our physical independence from the colonial masters but we are still under mental colonization,” said Governor Mutua in a statement.
He emphasized the need for a radical shift in Kenyan politics, one that prioritizes leaders' ability to deliver services over their tribal affiliations.
“Kenya needs politics and political parties based on ideologies and not tribal affiliations. Poverty does not discriminate on tribal lines. You are poor regardless of your tribal leader or ethnic voting selection,” he said.
Governor Mutua also expressed his commitment to building a coalition based on a shared vision for Kenya's development, rather than tribal affiliations.
“More than half a century later after independence, issues of ignorance, disease and poverty remain. We are still ignorant because we think in tribal lines and reward corrupt leaders,” he added.
Mutua spoke to journalists at the County offices in Mavoko, Athi River.
