Shun tribalism when electing leaders in 2027, City residents urged

Nairobi residents have been urged to reject tribal politics and focus on development-driven leadership as the 2027 general elections approach.

This call comes amid growing concerns that tribal affiliation continues to influence voter choices in urban constituencies such as Westlands, where some community members believe that only candidates from certain ethnic backgrounds are electable.

Independent aspirant Lucy M. Jeffrey, who is seeking to represent Westlands Constituency, has challenged this view, calling on residents to prioritise performance and integrity over tribal identity.

“It has been said to my face that only a Luhya can win in Kangemi,” said Jeffrey, who grew up in Kenya but has lived and worked in Canada for nearly two decades.

 “That kind of thinking is why people continue to suffer despite voting every five years.”

She said many voters had told her that her non-local background disqualified her from serious consideration, despite her track record in business and media abroad.

Jeffrey said tribal loyalty should not dictate leadership in a diverse and urban constituency like Westlands.

 She pointed to persistent challenges in areas such as Kangemi, where youth unemployment, poor housing, and struggling small businesses remain widespread.

“When I looked around Westlands, I saw unemployed youth, women struggling to start mama mboga businesses, and children walking long distances to school,” she said.

 “What we need is leadership that serves all people, not one community.”

She proposed a development-centred approach focused on job creation, youth digital skills, affordable healthcare, and education support.

Her plan includes donating half of her MP salary to local service initiatives, establishing a business call centre, and linking Kenyan professionals with international networks.

“I’ve heard it all — that I’m Canadian, that I don’t know the ground,” said Jeffrey.

“But what people want are solutions, not slogans.”

Civic groups have before backed such messages, urging voters across Nairobi to consider leaders with practical plans and a service-first approach, regardless of ethnic origin.

Kenyans have been warned that clinging to tribal preferences risks locking out capable candidates and slowing down development.

With tribalism still shaping election narratives, observers say it is time for urban voters to demand more than ethnic alignment, and instead insist on accountability, innovation, and tangible change.