Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma has joined the growing political debate around Mt Kenya East, backing calls for the region to assert itself following remarks by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku on regional political autonomy.
Kaluma spoke after Ruku stated that Mt Kenya East counties would no longer accept being treated as a voting bloc for leaders from other parts of the Mt Kenya region.
Ruku said communities in Embu, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi want a stronger voice in national politics and development decisions.
In a statement posted on X, Kaluma defended the Mt Kenya East position and urged the wider Mt Kenya region to rally behind Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, who hails from Tharaka Nithi County and is the first leader from Mt Kenya East to hold the deputy presidency.
“Mt Kenya East people supported Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta, without complaints,” Kaluma said. “The whole of Mt Kenya must support this government with Prof Kindiki who is the first leader from Mt Kenya East to hold the position of Deputy President.”
Ruku’s remarks have stirred debate within Mt Kenya politics, with some leaders from Mt Kenya West expressing discomfort over what they see as a potential split within the region.
Others have accused Mt Kenya East leaders of advancing succession politics under the guise of unity.
However, Ruku has insisted that the push is not about division but recognition.
He said Mt Kenya East wants tangible development outcomes and equal political consideration, arguing that backing one of their own in government is a strategic move.
Kaluma dismissed claims that dissatisfaction with the government should be linked to Kindiki’s appointment as Deputy President.
He said it would be unfair to portray the administration as ineffective simply because leadership positions have shifted within the Mt Kenya region.