Eldoret Human Rights Activist Kipkorir Ngetich Warns Kalenjin Leaders Against Clanism and Hate Politics Ahead of Elections

 

 Prominent Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has issued a strong warning to Kalenjin political and community leaders against the growing trend of clan-based politics, internal profiling, and hate campaigns within the community as the country moves closer to the upcoming general election.

In a hard-hitting statement released in Eldoret, Ngetich called upon Members of Parliament, Members of County Assemblies, Cabinet Secretaries, and community opinion leaders from the Kalenjin community to desist from dividing people along sub-tribal and clan lines. He emphasized that such retrogressive politics not only threaten the region’s peace and stability but also undermine the unity agenda championed by His Excellency the President.

“The Kalenjin community are one people and proud citizens of Kenya. No one should dare impose feelings of superiority or inferiority among our people,” said Ngetich. “The President has set a clear example by uniting Kenyans regardless of tribe, age, or region. It is, therefore, unacceptable for any leader—elected or appointed—to go against this spirit of national unity by promoting clanism and hate.”

Clan Politics Called a Threat to Development

Ngetich described the rise of clan-based mobilization within the Kalenjin community as a “cancer that eats away at social cohesion and economic progress.” He cautioned that political leaders attempting to create divisions between sub-tribes and clans were not only acting against the interests of the community but also playing into the hands of those who wish to destabilize the Rift Valley politically.

He pointed to recent statements and online campaigns in Uasin Gishu County that sought to brand Kapseret MP Hon. Oscar Sudi as a “Marakwet,” terming the move “irresponsible, primitive, and driven by political jealousy.”

“Hon. Oscar Sudi has served as a Member of Parliament for over 15 years. The majority of his voters come from the Nandi sub-tribe within the larger Kalenjin community, yet they elected him not because of his clan, but because of his leadership record,” Ngetich said. “He enjoys cosmopolitan support, and his record of development speaks for itself. Labeling him or any other leader based on their sub-tribe is not only divisive but also hypocritical and a betrayal of unity.”

The activist condemned what he termed “sponsored propaganda” by certain MPs and Cabinet Secretaries allegedly financed by political figures from outside the Rift Valley. He accused these actors of trying to create instability and division in Uasin Gishu County—home to the sitting President—with the aim of discrediting the region and weakening the political unity of the Kalenjin people.

Warning to Divisive Leaders

Ngetich issued a stern warning to those behind what he described as “hate campaigns and tribal manipulation,” saying that they are being closely monitored and that evidence is being gathered for potential legal and political action.

“We are putting on notice certain MPs and Cabinet members from the Kalenjin community who are sponsoring and financing hate campaigns instead of helping the President deliver his development agenda. If they wish to engage in active politics, they should resign from public office and face the people in a fair contest,” he said.

He emphasized that the use of public resources or government influence to promote hate, recruit goons, or intimidate rivals will not be tolerated. “Those who are recruiting and sponsoring goons against other leaders will be held accountable. We are watching you, and the evidence we are collecting will cost your political career,” he warned.

Ngetich said that such actions are reminiscent of dictatorial regimes that employed divide-and-rule tactics to remain in power. “History has shown that every dictator who ruled with an iron fist did so by dividing tribes, clans, and communities. Anyone trying to revive those dark tactics in the Rift Valley today is an enemy of peace, progress, and democracy.”

Appeal for Unity and Peace

The activist called on all Kalenjin leaders to emulate the example set by the President, who has consistently preached national unity, inclusion, and peaceful coexistence.

“Where the Head of State comes from, there must be order, unity, and dignity,” Ngetich said. “The President has sacrificed and worked tirelessly to unite Kenyans. Those who think they will shame him in his own backyard by promoting hate and division will not succeed.”

He urged elders, religious leaders, and youth groups across Uasin Gishu and the broader Rift Valley region to stand firm against divisive politics and instead promote peace and harmony. “Our unity as a people is our greatest strength. The enemies of peace, unity, and progress are now targeting the Kalenjin community, hoping to turn it into a divided house ahead of the next general election. We must not fall into that trap.”

A Call to the Youth

Ngetich made a passionate appeal to the youth in the region not to be used as instruments of hate and violence by politicians. He cautioned that those who accept money or gifts to propagate hatred would face the full force of the law.

“Young people must understand that those who sponsor them to cause chaos will abandon them once the law catches up. Do not be used to spread hate. Protect your future by rejecting handouts that come with blood on them,” he warned.

He encouraged the youth to focus on education, innovation, and entrepreneurship, noting that peace and stability are the foundation of sustainable development. “When peace prevails, investors come in, jobs are created, and lives improve. When we fight, we all lose.”

Call for Responsible Leadership

Ngetich also urged Kalenjin leaders serving in national and county governments to be ambassadors of unity and progress. He criticized those he said were using their positions to sponsor divisions and manipulate the community for short-term political gain.

“Leadership is a privilege, not a weapon. Those in Cabinet or Parliament must use their positions to strengthen the President’s vision of a united Kenya. If you are working against that vision, then you are betraying both your community and your country,” he said.

The activist emphasized that democracy is about freedom of choice—not a license for hate or violence. “Democracy allows everyone to choose their leaders freely. It is not freedom to insult, incite, or discriminate. True democracy builds nations, not divides them,” he added.

Appeal to All Kenyans

Concluding his statement, Ngetich called upon all Kenyans—inside and outside the Rift Valley—to stand together and defend the unity of the country. He praised the ongoing national efforts toward reconciliation, inclusivity, and development, noting that Kenya’s diversity should be its strength, not its weakness. 

“Kenya belongs to all of us—regardless of tribe, region, age, or color. Let us not be blinded by the politics of hate. Let us choose peace, tolerance, and shared prosperity,” he said.

Ngetich reaffirmed his commitment to continue speaking against tribalism, corruption, and social injustices that hold communities back. He called upon civil society organizations, faith-based groups, and local media to amplify the message of peace and to hold leaders accountable for their words and actions.

“Our unity is our shield. Our diversity is our beauty. Let us guard both jealously,” Ngetich concluded. “Those who attempt to divide us will fail, because peace and unity will always prevail.”