Mijikenda elders to unveil new political party after Raila death

Mijikenda Kaya Elders coordinator Tsuma Nzai Kombe, flanked by other elders, during a press conference at the Magarini Cultural Centre in Kilifi county

Speaking on Saturday, the elders said they are in the final stages of identifying a regional political kingpin who will champion the Coast agenda at the national stage.

They said that after years of backing ODM leader Raila Odinga, the Mijikenda now believe it is time to chart their own political course.

The elders recently travelled to Bondo to pay their last respects to Raila, acknowledging his contribution to uniting and amplifying the region’s voice.

During their visit to Kango ka Jaramogi, they said they unanimously agreed that the moment had come for the Coast to consolidate its strength and negotiate more firmly in national coalitions.

Addressing the press at the Magarini Cultural Centre in Kilifi county, Mijikenda Kaya Elders coordinator Tsuma Kombe said the region has lacked a strong homegrown political party since the death of former CS Karisa Maitha.

“We supported Raila Odinga because he walked closely with our leaders, including Karisa Maitha. Now that Raila is gone, we feel politically orphaned. It is time for us, as the Coast people, to come together and define our own path,” he said.

He emphasised that the Mijikenda, the majority voting bloc in the region, must play a decisive role in shaping the national political landscape.

“We have seen how political direction drives development. We will form a party for all Mijikenda because without the Mijikenda, there is no Coast. We want unity among all communities,” he said.

Tinga Kalu, a Kaya elder from Kaya Fungo, confirmed that the new party has already been registered and is awaiting its official unveiling.

“The launch is set for January. This party will help us bargain better at the national level. Kenya is a free country, and our people deserve an equal share of the national cake,” he said.

At the same time, the elders urged the IEBC to ensure transparent and credible by-elections to restore public trust as the 2027 polls draw closer.

They cited rising tensions in the Malava and Kasipul by-elections, warning that disputed polls threaten national stability.

Kombe also expressed concern over the upcoming Magarini by-election scheduled for November 27, calling for restraint and peaceful campaigns.

“Elections must be peaceful. Let people vote freely. The tensions in Malava and Kasipul are caused by political parties dividing citizens. IEBC must address these issues,” he said.

INSTANT ANALYSIS

The Mijikenda Kaya Elders’ move to unveil a Coast-based political party marks a significant shift in the region’s political identity. After years of rallying behind national figures like Raila Odinga, the elders are signalling a desire for homegrown political leadership and stronger bargaining power ahead of 2027.