Tana river: Tana River Senator, Danson Mungatana, is calling on residents to reject ethnic alliances and divisive political factions ahead of the 2027 general elections. Accompanied by Garsen MP, Ali Wario, Senator Mungatana said politicians who are mobilizing ethnic support to clinch elective seats should be rejected at the ballot box.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mungatana emphasized that residents should reject politicians who mobilize ethnic and religious alliances to win elections, stating that such moves allow failed politicians to escape scrutiny and accountability. The Senator highlighted the importance of electing leaders based on integrity and development record rather than tribal affiliations.
Mungatana cautioned against the mobilization of ethnic, tribal, and religious identity as a shortcut to power, warning that such tactics damage cohesion in the long run. He expressed concern that ethnic-based political rhetoric and mobilization undermine unity, stunts socio-economic development, and fuels unnecessary electoral tensions every election cycle.
The Senator urged the people to disregard tribal alliances and endorsements, insisting that candidates and political actors must present their development agendas to the public. He particularly singled out those seeking to become governors, noting the significant annual budgetary allocations that need prudent management for the benefit of Tana River residents.
Addressing residents of Kipini in Delta Sub County, Mungatana criticized those who promote ethnicity for narrow political interests. He recounted how local politicians in past general elections have incited divisions between communities, robbing the county of much-needed development since the inception of devolution.
Mungatana called for an end to the culture of tribal endorsements and urged the election of leaders based on their development track record. As he seeks to defend his senatorial seat in the 2027 polls, he emphasized that communities in Tana River must unite irrespective of tribe and religion for prosperity.
His sentiments come amidst reports of leading politicians forming tribal alliances in preparation for the governorship race. Mungatana stressed the need to reject deceptive politics and support leaders committed to genuinely serving the people.
He also proposed the idea of compulsory voting to increase voter turnout, citing countries like Australia, Belgium, Egypt, and Gabon, where non-voters face fines. Mungatana urged Tana River residents to register and participate actively in the elections to enhance collective political participation.
MP Wario echoed Mungatana’s call for peace and unity among the diverse communities. He urged residents to stop transferring their votes to neighboring counties, highlighting that such practices weaken local development efforts tied to population and voting.
