The Mijikenda Kaya Elders have announced plans to unveil a Coast-based political party in January 2026 as part of a wider effort to redefine the region’s political trajectory ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Speaking during a press briefing, the elders said they are in the final stages of identifying a regional political kingpin who will champion the Coast agenda at the national stage.
They noted that after years of backing ODM leader the late Raila Odinga, the Mijikenda now believe it is time to chart their own political course.
The elders recently travelled to Bondo to pay their last respects to Raila, acknowledging his contribution to uniting and amplifying the region’s voice.
During their visit to Kang’o ka Jaramogi, they said they unanimously agreed that the moment had come for the Coast to consolidate its strength and negotiate more firmly within national coalitions.
Addressing the press at the Magarini Cultural Centre in Kilifi County, Mijikenda Kaya Elders Coordinator Tsuma Nzai Kombe said the region has lacked a strong homegrown political party since the death of former Cabinet Minister Karisa Maitha.
“We supported Raila Odinga because he walked closely with our leaders, including Karisa Maitha. Now that Raila is gone, we feel politically orphaned. It is time for us, as the Coast people, to come together and define our own path,” said Kombe.
He emphasised that the Mijikenda, the majority voting bloc in the region, must play a decisive role in shaping the national political landscape.
“We have seen how political direction drives development. We will form a party for all Mijikenda because without the Mijikenda, there is no Coast. We want unity among all communities,” he added.
Tinga Kalu, a Kaya elder from Kaya Fungo, confirmed that the new party has already been registered and is awaiting its official unveiling.
“The launch is set for January. This party will help us bargain better at the national level. Kenya is a free country, and our people deserve an equal share of the national cake,” he said.
At the same time, the elders urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure transparent and credible by-elections to restore public trust as the 2027 polls draw closer.
They cited rising tensions in the Malava and Kasipul by-elections, warning that disputed polls threaten national stability.
Kombe also expressed concern over the upcoming Magarini by-election scheduled for November 27, 2025 calling for restraint and peaceful campaigns.
“Elections must be peaceful. Let people vote freely. The tensions in Malava and Kasipul are caused by political parties dividing citizens. IEBC must address these issues,” he said.
