Luhya Leaders Should Move Beyond Luhya Unity Rhetorics- Governor Natembeya
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya used the burial of former Bungoma South MP Lawrence Sifuna to challenge leaders from the Luhya community to move beyond mere talk of unity and focus on concrete steps towards economic transformation.
In his address, Natembeya expressed frustration with the elusive nature of Luhya unity, highlighting the disconnect between the rhetoric often heard at funerals and the lack of tangible progress on the ground.
“The talk about Luhya unity, which only surfaces in funerals and not in serious forums, is pure rhetoric since most leaders are not focused on economic empowerment,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for a shift in focus, urging leaders to move beyond empty platitudes and address the real challenges faced by the Luhya community, particularly poverty and economic marginalization.
“Let us focus on addressing the challenges that our people face at the grassroots level. We cannot be united by poverty,” he declared.
Natembeya also acknowledged Sifuna’s legacy, praising his contribution to building democratic space in the country and his firm commitment to improving the lives of Kenyans. He called on leaders to carry Sifuna’s torch forward by prioritizing the socioeconomic interests of the Luhya community.
“We need to pick from where Sifuna left, assisting our people should be the main focus,” he stated.
Natembeya’s call to action resonated with many mourners, who have long called for more concrete steps towards Luhya unity. The challenge now lies in translating the rhetoric into tangible action, with leaders needing to come together and develop a clear roadmap for economic empowerment and poverty reduction in the region.
Leaders who attended the burial included former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, DAP K party leader Eugene Wamalwa, Health Cabinet Secretary Susan Nakhumicha, Bungoma Governor Ken Lusaka, Siaya Governor James Orengo, and a host of MPs.
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