Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary, has issued a sharp rebuke to politicians stoking tribal tensions, warning that the country cannot afford a repeat of the deadly 2007–2008 post-election violence.
Speaking during an education-focused public event in Kajiado County, Mudavadi cautioned political leaders against fuelling division ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We must never go back to where we were in 2007,” he said, recalling his role in the Serena peace talks brokered by former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, Graca Machel, and Benjamin Mkapa. “Over 1,400 lives were lost. We spent 42 days negotiating peace. Let’s not undo the unity we have built.”
A Dangerous Drift
His comments came amid growing concern that some political figures have begun spreading tribal rhetoric—even outside Kenya’s borders.
Without naming names, Mudavadi appeared to aim a jab at senior leaders allegedly stirring ethnic sentiments among Kenyans living abroad.
“Someone goes to the U.S., says they will only speak to one community. That is exporting tribalism,” he said in Swahili. “The bad habits we’ve been trying to fight here, they’re now spreading to the diaspora.”
He stressed that Kenyans abroad often support each other across ethnic lines, especially during emergencies, and should not be drawn into homeland divisions.
“In a foreign land, your tribe doesn’t matter. Your neighbour is your support system,” he added.
Unity First, Politics Later
Mudavadi, a seasoned political hand and longtime voice of moderation, urged restraint from all leaders as the country prepares for what could be a highly competitive 2027 race.
“This country belongs to all of us. It’s time leaders put citizens’ interests before personal ambition,” he said. “Let’s stop threatening the country with chaos.”
He also called on politicians to respect constitutional institutions, warning that undermining entities such as the IEBC could discredit future elections.
“IEBC is a referee. Let’s not make it look like it works for one side,” he said. “Dismantling institutions is the first step towards national collapse.”
A Message to Gen Z
In a pointed message to Kenya’s younger generation, Mudavadi called on older leaders to lead by example.
“Gen Z is watching us. If we’re full of insults and tribal talk, what do we expect them to learn?” he asked. “If our children are straying, perhaps it’s because we are the ones misguiding them.”
The remarks come at a time when youth-led civic movements have gained momentum, with Gen Z playing a major role in street protests and digital activism.
Looking Ahead
Mudavadi’s speech was delivered during an economic empowerment event at Maasai National Polytechnic alongside Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki and local leaders. The initiative supports underprivileged students in Kajiado Central.
His message, however, was national in scope—and deeply personal. Having witnessed the country’s descent into chaos in 2008, Mudavadi appears determined not to see Kenya revisit that darkness.
“We can disagree politically without tearing the country apart,” he concluded. “Let’s protect what we’ve built.”
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