By Nyakang’o O’Nyamota
The Gusii people stand at a historic crossroads, politically speaking.
For decades, we have been a strong and hardworking community, contributing immensely to Kenya’s national progress.
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Yet, time and again, we have witnessed our political strength undermined, our unity tested, and our aspirations diluted by external forces seeking to divide us.
Today, as we face another critical election in 2027, we must ask ourselves: will we allow history to repeat itself, or rise as one and take our rightful place in national leadership?
A Legacy of Excellence and Betrayal
Our history is rich with leaders who have served Kenya with distinction.
From the days of the formidable Simeon Nyachae, who stood firm in advancing Gusii interests, to the transformative leadership of Dr. Fred Matiang’i, who redefined governance with efficiency and boldness, and the impeccable legal legacy of Chief Justice Emeritus David Maraga, we have repeatedly proven our worth in national leadership.
Yet, despite our contribution in the development of the nation, we have been betrayed time and again.
Political parties have courted us when they needed votes, only to abandon us when it was time to share power.
We have played the role of kingmakers but have never sat on the throne.
Why? Because we have allowed divisions, personal ambitions, and external manipulation to weaken our unity.
A False Dilemma
Now, our people are being presented with a dangerous choice—between Maraga and Matiang’i.
Both are sons of the soil, men of integrity who have served this country with excellence.
Justice Emeritus upheld the rule of law and safeguarded democracy, ensuring justice for all Kenyans.
Dr. Matiang’i redefined public service, restoring order in education, security, and governance.
Yet, those who fear a strong Gusii voting bloc are using this moment to divide us.
They want us to bicker over two great leaders instead of rallying behind one and seizing the opportunity before us.
This is the trap that has always cost us.
If we allow ourselves to be split, we will once again watch from the sidelines as other communities take positions of power while we remain spectators in the national discourse.
Unique and Advantageous Moment
This election is unlike any other.
It presents an unprecedented opportunity for us to rise, but only if we speak with one voice.
For the first time in history, the country is looking at the Gusii people with respect.
Our numerical strength, intellectual contributions, and economic power can no longer be ignored.
But power is never given—it is taken.
We must consolidate our votes, select one candidate, and present a united front to the nation.
The Power of a United Vote
Voting as a bloc is not just about winning—it is about earning the respect of the nation.
The communities that hold political influence in this country do so because they vote together.
The moment we split our votes, we weaken ourselves.
But when we vote as one, we dictate the terms of our engagement, negotiate from a position of strength, and ensure that the Gusii voice is not just heard but respected at the highest levels of government.
A Manifesto That Represents Gusii Interests
We must not just elect a leader—we must propel a vision.
Our chosen candidate must have a manifesto that reflects the aspirations of our people.
This means policies that guarantee economic empowerment for our farmers, traders, and professionals.
Policies that secure infrastructural development for the Gusii region and representation at the national table, where decisions are made.
The should be policies that boost strong alliances with like-minded communities to form a government that includes us at its core.
It is important to note that unity is power and forming government starts with standing together.
It is a fact that we cannot form a government when we are fragmented.
We must unite with other communities that share our vision and forge a formidable political alliance.
But before we do that, we must first be united among ourselves.
The world does not respect the divided—it respects the strong, the organized, and the determined with a national agenda.
The Time to Choose Wisely
Let us refuse to be used. Let us refuse to be divided. Let us refuse to be spectators in a game we should be playing.
We must come together, choose one leader, and move forward with clarity, strength, and purpose.
This is our moment. Let us seize it.
Gusii First. Gusii United. Gusii Victorious.
–O’Nyamota comments on topical issues. The views are his and don’t necessarily reflect the position of KPC.
