Lusaka Urges Leaders to Embrace Political Tolerance Ahead of 2027
Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka has urged political leaders to embrace one another despite their political affiliations, saying electoral competition should not create enmity or undermine peaceful coexistence.
Lusaka said politics should be anchored on tolerance, mutual respect and constructive engagement, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 General Election.
“Politics should not create enmity among leaders. We must learn to coexist, respect one another and tolerate divergent political views,” Lusaka said.
The governor spoke in Luuya Bwake Ward, Kabuchai, during the send-off ceremony of Mama Alina Wakwabubi, the family matriarch of Senator Consolata Wakwabubi.
Lusaka noted that the Mulembe Nation has historically produced prominent leaders who have pursued the presidency, citing the late Vice-President Michael Kijana Wamalwa and former Vice-President Musalia Mudavadi among others.
He said regional leaders had previously rallied behind presidential candidates from the region despite the outcomes of elections, describing such political diversity as an important part of Kenya’s democratic tradition.
Lusaka Defends Sifuna’s Political Ambitions
Lusaka also defended Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna’s right to seek elective office, saying every leader should be given an opportunity to present their agenda to voters.
“Sifuna has a democratic right to contest for any seat. This is his moment, and he should be allowed to sell his agenda to the people,” he said.
The governor urged politicians to focus on selling their respective agendas rather than attacking opponents, noting that voters would ultimately decide who they want to elect in 2027.
“The people are the ones who will decide who they want to elect in 2027. Our responsibility as leaders is to sell our agendas and allow the people to make their choice,” Lusaka said.
Lusaka, who is also President William Ruto’s Western Region re-election coordinator, further rallied support for the President’s development agenda, pointing to ongoing infrastructure projects and investments in healthcare as key interventions in Bungoma.
He highlighted ongoing road projects and the planned Sichei Level Six Hospital in Kabuchai, saying the investments would improve healthcare services and connectivity while stimulating economic activity and improving livelihoods across the county.
The governor called on political leaders to maintain peaceful and issue-based engagement, saying development and the interests of residents should remain at the centre of political discourse as Kenya heads towards the 2027 polls.
Among the leaders present were Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, Senator Catherine Muma, Senator Wafula Wakoli, Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga and Bumula MP Jack Wamboka, among other leaders.
