The resurgence of the “one man, one shilling, one kilometre” mantra appears to be a strategic ploy designed to mask deeper political maneuvers. While it is understandable for the Gikuyus, under the banner of Mt. Kenya nationalism, to push for more resource allocation, especially given their already well-developed regions, this strategy can be seen as a calculated effort to maintain and consolidate power.
The principle behind devolution was to address the historical imbalances in development that favored certain regions due to their proximity to political power. Over the past 11 years, substantial funds have been disbursed to all 47 counties in Kenya. However, the anticipated equitable development has not been fully realized. Instead of using these funds to establish a robust foundation for regional development, many governors have prioritized personal interests, often in collaboration with Gikuyus who possess considerable expertise and street-smart acumen. This has resulted in the lion’s share of economic benefits flowing back to Mt. Kenya, perpetuating the cycle of inequality.
Historically, the Gikuyus have demonstrated a keen awareness of power dynamics and have strategically positioned themselves to acquire and consolidate power. Since the 2002 elections, there has been a noticeable pattern of power consolidation by leaders from Mt. Kenya. The political maneuvers over the years underscore this pattern:
- 2002 Elections: The KANU presidential candidate joined forces with President Kibaki, effectively eliminating opposition and consolidating power.
- 2007 Elections: Uhuru Kenyatta defended Kibaki’s contested presidency during the post-election violence, further consolidating their grip on power.
- 2012/13 Elections: Despite facing charges at The Hague, Uhuru Kenyatta, after initial political maneuvers, retained his bid for the presidency, leading to a successful election.
- 2022 Elections: With no strong Mt. Kenya candidate, the region, led by Uhuru Kenyatta, supported Raila Odinga while also strategically positioning Rigathi Gachagua as William Ruto’s running mate. This ensured a win-win scenario for Mt. Kenya, irrespective of the election outcome.
The post-2022 elections saw Mt. Kenya leaders quickly align with the winning government, showcasing their adeptness at political survival and power consolidation. The recent Limuru III meetings indicate that Mt. Kenya is already strategizing for the 2027 elections, aiming to remain a significant player in the national political landscape.
This power consolidation is not merely about political dominance; it is about ensuring that Mt. Kenya remains at the center of Kenya’s political and economic discourse. The notion that they seem divided is a facade. In reality, they are united and strategic, constantly planning their next move to ensure continued influence.
For other regions, there is much to learn from Mt. Kenya’s approach. Instead of harboring resentment, they should study and understand the mechanisms of power consolidation and strategic political planning employed by Mt. Kenya leaders. This knowledge could be pivotal in leveling the playing field and achieving more balanced regional development and representation in the future.
In conclusion, the political strategies of Mt. Kenya highlight a deeply entrenched culture of power consolidation. This is a testament to their political acumen and ability to adapt and thrive in the complex landscape of Kenyan politics. The mantra of “one man, one shilling, one kilometre” is not just a call for equitable resource distribution; it is a sophisticated strategy to maintain political relevance and control.
