In the midst of escalating political tensions in Kenya, a prominent lobby group, led by Architecture Nyongesa Makhanu, has emerged as a key player, advocating for constitutional reviews to address critical issues plaguing the nation.
At the core of their mission is the proposal for a rotational presidency, aiming to mitigate the ever-escalating tension arising from the winner-takes-it-all politics.
Speaking to Mumbo FM, a Bungoma-based vernacular radio station, Eng. Nyongesa stated that it is prudent enough for the country to seek alternative methods of leadership.
Nyongesa’s Polygony Presidential Initiative (PPI) group argues that the current winner-takes-it-all system perpetuates tribal tensions and hampers progress towards national unity.
They believe that by adopting a rotational presidency, where the presidential position rotates among different communities, Kenya can break away from the divisive ethnic-driven politics and promote inclusivity.
However, the call for unity talks is facing resistance from close allies of President Ruto and Opposition leader Raila Odinga. These influential figures are accused of obstructing the dialogue in order to safeguard their personal interests and political power, further deepening divisions in the country.
“Ruto and Raila may he willing to hold this country together, but some figures surrounding them are out to sabotage any such move,” said the professional architecture during the weekend’s political talk show on Friday.
Since the Independence, Kenya has been ruled by Presidents from only two communities; the Kikuyus and Kalenjins.
One of the central concerns highlighted by the lobby group is the need to address the concentration of power within just two major communities in Kenya. This concentration has fueled ethnic tensions and marginalized other ethnic groups, creating a sense of exclusion and dissatisfaction.
In addition to advocating for the rotational presidency, the lobby group is also proposing another significant change to foster inclusivity and gender representation in Kenya’s political leadership.
They suggest having a Presidential nominee from the opposite gender of the main candidate. This proposal aims to break away from the traditional norms that have limited political leadership to just a male president and deputy President.
The lobby group firmly believes that addressing both ethnic dominance and gender imbalances in the country’s leadership is crucial for Kenya’s progress and national stability. Their constitutional review proposals seek to pave the way for a more united and harmonious Kenya.
The PPI also notes that a second runners up in the presidential election be given the official opposition role in the National Assembly to check the government, something that the 2010 constitution didn’t address.
As the nation navigates through this critical juncture in its history, the lobby group’s efforts to promote the rotational presidency and foster inclusivity hold the potential to reshape the political landscape and promote a more inclusive and united Kenya.
However, overcoming the resistance from powerful allies of both President Ruto and Raila Odinga will be essential in achieving these transformative changes and steering the country towards lasting harmony and progress.