This archive report was first published on 7 June 2020.
Wetangula's Leadership Style Echoes Luhya Traditions of Power Struggle ¶
Senator Moses Wetangula's rise to Ford Kenya leadership has sparked controversy, with many drawing parallels to a centuries-old Luhya tradition of power struggles. A similar story unfolded in the 19th century, involving Namukongo, nephew of Se Wamukoya II, a legendary leader of the Tachoni people.
According to oral tradition, Namukongo's mother, who was the eldest wife of his father, was discriminated against because she was a woman. This led her to incite her son Namukongo to overthrow his uncle Se Wamukoya II, who was a man of peace. Se Wamukoya II decided to move elsewhere instead of fighting Namukongo, but warned that Namukongo's actions would have consequences.
Se Wamukoya II eventually settled in Bumula, South Bukusu, where he lived out his days. Meanwhile, Namukongo's actions caught the attention of Munyei omungachi, who befriended Namukongo and learned the strength and weaknesses of his army. Munyei then overthrew Namukongo and detained him, but Namukongo's son Siboko and wife managed to escape and seek refuge among the Balaku and Bachuchu.
Years later, Namukongo was rescued by a surprise army hired by Siboko and his mother, and he joined his supporters at Mwiyenga. He then moved to Nambale, where he sent a mission to his uncle Se Wamukoya II to seek forgiveness. Se Wamukoya II forgave Namukongo and appointed him to succeed him instead of his son Sibionei Lumboka.
Similarly, Senator Wetangula took Ford Kenya leadership from Musikari Kombo by force, sparking controversy and allegations that his actions were not in line with Luhya tradition. The oracle's advice to Wetangula is to seek forgiveness from Kombo for his misdeeds, or risk facing political oblivion.
