Bungoma Gubernatorial aspirant Zack Barasa with Tranz Nzoia governor George Natembeya at Mudete,Vihiga on Saturday…..Photo/IP
By Alex Wekesa
VIHIGA, Kenya
Bungoma gubernatorial aspirant Zachariah Baraza has raised concern over deepening poverty within the Luhya community.
Barasa blamed years of neglect by self-serving political leaders and the collapse of key industries in Western Kenya as the reason for increased poverty.
Speaking during a cultural event in Mudete, Sabatia constituency, Vihiga County — where Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya was crowned the region’s political kingpin — Baraza lamented economic stagnation despite the community’s vast resources and potential.
“The Luhya community needs a bold, visionary leader who can transform our economy and uplift the lives of our people,” Baraza said.
He cited the collapse of the Nzoia and Mumias sugar factories, the Webuye Panpaper mill and the Malakisi cotton ginnery as major contributors to job losses and rising poverty in the region.
He argued that the lack of operational industries has left thousands of residents unemployed.
Baraza further blamed decades of political mismanagement for the community’s underdevelopment, saying leaders from the region have held powerful government positions without advancing the interests of their constituents.
He endorsed Governor Natembeya as the most suitable leader to unite the Luhya nation and push its development agenda at the national level.
“There is power in unity. Today marks a new beginning in Mulembe leadership. The coronation of Natembeya opens a new chapter of visionary leadership in Western Kenya,” Baraza said.
During the ceremony, elders representing the Maragoli, Tiriki and Abanyore communities blessed Natembeya and tasked him with uniting all 18 Luhya sub-tribes to speak with one voice in pursuit of greater dignity, influence and economic opportunities.
Baraza urged all Luhya leaders and residents to rally behind Natembeya, stressing that political unity is the only path to securing the community’s rightful place in Kenya’s governance.
“Other communities like the Kikuyu speak with one voice, but the Luhya community remains fragmented. I believe Natembeya is the leader who can bring us together,” he said.
Baraza’s remarks come amid growing calls for political cohesion in the Luhya region ahead of the 2027 general elections.
