Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has initiated a deliberate campaign to secure support from the Mount Kenya region, demonstrating a strategic move towards unifying the Kikuyu and Akamba communities.
On Thursday, Kalonzo held a meeting with the Kikuyu council of elders at Ruaka offices.
Kalonzo's agenda focused on bridging the historical gap between the Kikuyu and Kamba communities, advocating for their inclusion within the GEMA (Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, Akamba) framework.
He emphasized that his intentions surpassed mere political manoeuvring, aiming instead for a society characterized by cohesion and harmony, transcending past divisions that have hindered progress.
Addressing the Kikuyu elders, Kalonzo urged them to embrace his unity bid, stressing the importance of solidarity amidst prevailing political uncertainties.
He pledged unwavering commitment to their cause, promising continued engagement and outreach to community leaders across the region.
He said that there would be no difference between the Kikuyu and Kamba communities.
Kalonzo called upon the Kikuyu elders to rally behind his unity bid aspirations, stressing the importance of solidarity amidst political uncertainty.
He assured them of his unwavering commitment to their cause, promising continued engagement and outreach to community leaders across the region.
“I’m very happy to be here today to deliberate key issues affecting our people and this will not end here. I will continue reaching out to more community leadership in Mount Kenya. I will reach out to Meru council as well as Njuri Ncheke ”Kalonzo said.
He further said that he, among other Azimio members, is ready to take over the opposition in case Raila Odinga is elected as the chairman of the African Union Commission.
Echoing Kalonzo's sentiments, Wachira Kiago, the National Chairman of the Kikuyu council, commended his efforts to foster unity and reconciliation.
Kiago emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions in promoting growth and cooperation within the region.
Drawing upon past collaborations during elections, Kiago pledged ongoing support for Kalonzo's endeavours, reaffirming their shared commitment to peace and prosperity.
He said that the ongoing talks will help to promote growth and cooperation.
“We will continue preaching peace across the Country because that is our key mandate, ’Kiago said.
Kathiani MP Robert Mbui emphasized that the meeting should not be viewed solely through a political lens but rather as a means to promote unity and peace among all Mount Kenya communities, including the Kikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba.
He stressed that the inclusion of the Akamba community within the GEMA framework would enhance growth and cooperation within the region.
"GEMA has to be united and by incorporating the AKamba community, we can make the region better," he said
Matungulu MP Stephen Mule affirmed the readiness of the Kamba community to support unity efforts, expressing their commitment to cooperation and growth.
He underscored their dedication to being an integral part of the Mount Kenya region.
"We are all committed to doing all that is needed to be part of the GEMA community," he said.
He said that they are committed to the promotion of unity and growth noting that they are ready to cooperate.
“From today, we are committed to cooperating and doing all that is needed to be part of the Mount Kenya region,” he said.
Former Women representative Rechel Shebesh hailed Kalonzo for continuous support for the community.
She noted that Kalonzo had backed Narc party leader Martha Karua during her nomination to deputize Azimio leader Raila Odinga.
She emphasized their readiness to collaborate with him and endorse any aspirations Kalonzo may hold.
"As members of Jubilee, we are ready to work with you and support you; you have been very instrumental to the people of Mount Kenya," stated Shebesh.
Despite Kalonzo's earnest endeavours, challenges loom within his political camp in Azimio.
Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua, renowned for her principled stance, has questioned Kalonzo's suitability as a presidential candidate, advising him to focus on showcasing his capabilities to the electorate.
The rift within the coalition exposes underlying tensions and divergent agendas, complicating Kalonzo's strategic manoeuvring.
"My suggestion to my colleague Kalonzo Musyoka is to concentrate on showcasing his own capabilities and let the electorate decide who they believe is the most qualified," she said.
Other leaders present were Boni Mwalika( MP Kitui Rural), Gideon Mulyungi (Mwingi Central), Musila Mawathe (Embakasi South MP), Enock Wambua (Kitui Senator) and Daniel Maanzo (Makueni Senator).