‘When We No Longer Need a President from Our Tribe to Thrive, Corruption Will Diminish’ – Esther Passaris.

Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has called on Kenyans to reject tribalism, urging them to embrace unity and celebrate the country’s cultural diversity.

Her remarks came in response to political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi’s controversial suggestion that President William Ruto dismiss Kikuyu leaders from government and replace them with individuals from other communities.

Passaris argued that the persistent focus on having a president from one’s tribe perpetuates corruption and inequality, hindering national development. Taking to her X account on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, she emphasized the need to eliminate tribal bias in leadership, describing it as a root cause of the country’s stagnation.

“Two wrongs never make a right. The Kikuyus in government are Kenyans and worthy of the positions they hold. Tribalism has divided us for far too long. Believing one tribe is superior to another is where the problem lies,” she wrote.

Passaris also stressed the importance of appreciating Kenya’s diversity, noting that it is a strength that should unite rather than divide.

“When we no longer need a president from our tribe to thrive, corruption will diminish. ‘One Kenya, One People’ will become a reality,” she added.

Ngunyi’s Controversial Proposal

The discussion on tribalism in leadership was reignited after Mutahi Ngunyi, a prominent political analyst, suggested that Kikuyu leaders should be sidelined. Ngunyi claimed that Kikuyu leaders were resistant to President Ruto’s vision and advised the president to replace them with individuals from communities such as the Luo, Luhya, and Kamba, who, in his view, would show greater loyalty and appreciation.

“Dear Ruto, Kikuyus will not change their mind. They are at ground zero with you. Why? No idea! Fire their ministers. Appoint Luos, Luhyas, Kambas, and those who will appreciate you. Fix this Kikuyu problem once and for all. As a Kikuyu, some of us believe they should be downsized,” Ngunyi wrote.

A Call for Unity

Passaris’s response highlighted the dangers of perpetuating tribal biases, noting that such attitudes undermine Kenya’s potential. She called for an end to the idea that one community is superior to another, urging leaders to focus on policies that promote inclusivity and fairness.

“Our diversity is our strength,” she said, reiterating that the country can only progress by dismantling the walls of division and championing equality for all communities.

Passaris’s remarks serve as a reminder of the critical need to foster unity in Kenya, especially as tribalism continues to pose significant challenges to governance and national cohesion.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.