Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Muthoni Passaris has urged Kenya to transcend tribe-based politics, responding to political analyst Mutahi Ngunyi’s comments regarding Kikuyu voting patterns.
In a statement released on March 14, 2026, Passaris addressed Ngunyi’s remarks and advocated for a more mature national political dialogue.
Ngunyi had directed a message to the Kikuyu community, recalling his warnings during the 2022 elections and predicting regret over the political choices made. He suggested that similar decisions could adversely affect the outcomes of the 2027 elections.
“Dear Kikuyus: I told you NOT to vote for Ruto in 2022. You DID. You are regretting. Now I am telling you to vote for Ruto in 2027. But you won’t. You will regret it until 2042 when your young girls produce milk powder in their breasts out of old age. I tried to lead you,” Ngunyi stated in his post.
In her response, Passaris recognized that political commentary often ignites debate, yet she emphasized that communities should not be seen as monolithic entities.
She highlighted the increasing diversity of opinions within the Kikuyu region, often referred to as “the mountain,” illustrating a shift in political thought.
Passaris asserted that Kenya’s political trajectory should move away from ethnic divisions that have historically influenced electoral competition. She pointed out that communities with significant electoral power have a unique opportunity to foster a transition towards issue-based politics.
Moreover, she underscored the pivotal role of younger voters in shaping future political dialogues, noting their growing focus on truth, accountability, and long-term national interests rather than ethnic affiliations.
According to Passaris, the closely contested nature of Kenya’s elections reflects citizens’ aspirations for tangible improvements in their lives. She indicated that voters are increasingly prioritizing development and opportunities that enhance livelihoods across various regions.
Passaris illustrated the importance of infrastructure development, such as roads and markets, as catalysts for community confidence and job creation. She asserted that development initiatives can effectively address public frustrations and elevate living standards.
She also warned against the dangers of misinformation in politics, stating that misleading narratives may generate temporary enthusiasm but ultimately lead to disappointment when expectations fall short.
In conclusion, Passaris expressed her optimism that Kenya is gradually progressing towards a more issue-driven political culture, where leadership is evaluated based on merit and national benefit rather than ethnic identity.
