A fierce political storm has erupted following Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya’s remarks against President William Ruto’s decision to scrap the ID vetting process for North Eastern residents.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the North Eastern Parliamentary Group, led by Dadaab MP Farah Maalim, condemned the two leaders, demanding a public apology over what they termed as “bigoted, prejudiced, and racist” remarks.
Leaders Defend Ruto’s Decision to Scrap Vetting Process
Maalim hailed Ruto’s decision, calling it a historic step towards ending discrimination against the Kenyan Somali community. He reprimanded Kalonzo and Natembeya, stating that the North Eastern region would no longer tolerate systemic mistreatment.
“The president’s decision eliminates one of the most undignified things ever imposed on our people. The same way you cannot threaten a Kikuyu, a Luhya, or a Kalenjin, do not try to threaten us Somalis,” Maalim declared.
The vetting process, which was previously mandatory for ID applicants in Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, Isiolo, Marsabit, and Tana River counties, had long been criticized as discriminatory, forcing residents to undergo lengthy verification processes that did not apply to other communities.
Wajir South MP Warns Against Marginalization
Echoing Maalim’s sentiments, Wajir South MP Mohamed Adow warned that continued discrimination could destabilize the country.
“We have always been Kenya’s first line of defense. If not for the Kenyan Somali community, this country would not be as stable as it is today,” Adow stated.
He further objected to Kalonzo and Natembeya’s statements, terming them as attempts to reinstate unconstitutional discrimination.
“What Kalonzo and Natembeya are calling for is the reinstatement of an unconstitutional practice. We reject it in the strongest terms possible.”
Kalonzo and Natembeya’s Controversial Remarks
Kalonzo Musyoka and George Natembeya have strongly opposed Ruto’s decision, citing security and electoral concerns.
- Kalonzo accused Ruto of using the move to rig the 2027 General Elections, implying that lifting the vetting requirement would allow illegal registration of non-Kenyans.
- Governor Natembeya warned that the decision posed security threats, arguing that vetting helped prevent infiltration by foreign elements.
What’s Next?
Despite the uproar, President Ruto remains firm on his decision and has vowed to sign an Executive Order to formally abolish the vetting process.
The North Eastern leaders have given Kalonzo and Natembeya an ultimatum to issue a public apology or risk losing political support from their region.
This unfolding dispute underscores Kenya’s ongoing debate on identity politics, security, and electoral integrity, setting the stage for a heated national conversation in the run-up to 2027.
