Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah have publicly supported the push for Kiambu County to be recognised as a distinct region, separate from the larger Mount Kenya bloc.
The two prominent leaders articulated their backing during a forum at State House on Wednesday, where President William Ruto met with grassroots leaders from Kiambu County.
A Call for Distinct Identity
The discussion at the State House reignited a long-standing debate concerning the region’s political identity. Deputy President Kindiki and Leader of Majority Ichung’wah argued that Kiambu County possesses unique characteristics that warrant its own regional standing.
This stance aligns with recent calls from a section of Members of Parliament from the region.
Key Arguments for Separation
The leaders highlighted several compelling reasons for Kiambu’s proposed separation. They pointed to the county’s rapidly growing urban population as a key factor.
This demographic shift brings with it distinct development challenges that may differ significantly from those of other, less urbanised counties within the traditional Mount Kenya bloc.
“I agree with those saying Kiambu should be a region on its own,” Kindiki said.
Furthermore, Kindiki and Ichung’wah emphasised Kiambu’s substantial water resources, noting that the county boasts a water base larger than several Mount Kenya counties combined.
This, they argued, further solidifies its claim for a unique regional identity and independent recognition.
“We, the people of Kiambu have been christened the people of Mt Kenya, but the only mountains that the Kiambu people see the Ngong Hills and Kilimambogo. And they have said that they are a region on its own,” Kimani Ichung’wah added.
Reigniting a Long-Standing Debate
The State House meeting served as a crucial platform, bringing the debate over Kiambu’s political identity back to the forefront.
Ichung’wah also said that the region is rich in votes, hence deserves it’s regional autonomy.
The concept of regional political blocs, such as the Mount Kenya bloc, has historically played a significant role in Kenyan politics. These blocs often emerge from shared cultural, economic, or political interests and can influence national electoral outcomes and resource allocation.
For decades, the Mount Kenya region has been a powerful political force, comprising several counties that often vote cohesively. However, as countries develop and diversify, internal calls for re-evaluation of these blocs can emerge.
The push for Kiambu’s separation, therefore, can be seen as part of a broader, evolving narrative about regional identity and representation within Kenya’s devolved governance structure.
by moses sagwe
