The Unrecognized Hero of Kenya: The Legacy of Masinde Muliro and the Luhya Community's Political Struggles

 Though many Kenyans may not be fully aware, the survival of the presidency and political stability in Kenya may hinge on one key community: the Luhya nation. This is due to their large numbers, and yet, despite their size, they have never been fully united as a single voting block since the passing of their former leader, Masinde Muliro. Muliro, a man of integrity, remains one of Kenya's greatest unsung heroes. His efforts to unite the Luhya people and his significant contributions to the country's independence and politics have been largely overlooked.

Muliro, a founding member of the Forum for the Restoration of Democracy (FORD), was integral to Kenya's second liberation. His untimely death in 1992, under suspicious circumstances, marked the end of any chance for the Luhya community to unite under a single leader. Despite efforts by various politicians, including Francis Atwoli and Musalia Mudavadi, the Luhya vote remains fragmented.

The political drama surrounding the Luhya nation’s unity can be traced back to historical divisions between communities like the Maragoli and Bukusu. Muliro’s death, which many believe was orchestrated to weaken political opposition, served to divide his community even further. Today, the hopes of a unified Luhya vote rest on the shoulders of political figures like Raila Odinga, who has historically garnered Luhya support despite division.

Ultimately, Kenya's political future may depend on the recognition of Masinde Muliro’s contributions and the healing of the rifts within the Luhya community. Until then, the challenges of unifying this community and securing political survival for the ruling government will persist.