Kuungana Kujenga Kenya (KKK) party takes Mt Kenya by storm

By Wanderi Kamau

As the country gears towards the 2027 general elections, a new political wave is sweeping across the Mt Kenya region.

The Kuungana Kujenga Kenya–Sauti ya Mnyonge party, led by renowned political activist David Kimengere, has taken the region by storm, winning the hearts of many residents in Nyandarua, Nyeri, and Laikipia counties.

Kimengere, a descendant of the Mau Mau freedom fighters, has become a rallying figure for many grassroots citizens who feel their voices have long been ignored in Kenya’s political landscape.

His message of inclusivity, humility, and empowerment has struck a powerful chord, positioning him as a key player in Mt Kenya’s evolving political dynamics.

Already, Kimengere’s ambitions are clear. He has declared his intention to vie for the Othaya parliamentary seat in 2027, a move that has further energized his supporters. In a sign of growing momentum, prominent political figures from the region have also thrown their weight behind him.

Among them is former Public Service Cabinet Secretary and Attorney-General Justin Muturi, who praised Kimengere’s vision during a recent meeting.

“This party speaks for the common man. It’s a movement to watch,” Muturi stated, underlining the significance of Kimengere’s growing influence.

Beyond political endorsements, Kimengere’s Mau Mau heritage has resonated deeply with many descendants of Kenya’s liberation heroes. A number of them have proposed that he be named the official spokesman for Mau Mau descendants in the Mt Kenya region, citing his genuine commitment to voicing the concerns of the marginalized.

Lessons from Kenya’s past leaders

In a recent burial ceremony in Nyandarua County, Kimengere offered candid political advice to the Mt Kenya region, urging leaders and citizens alike to learn a crucial “hidden secret” from former leaders such as the late President Daniel arap Moi, ODM leader Raila Odinga, and current President William Ruto.

Kimengere greets Nyandarua John Methu (seated middle) at a recent burial ceremony at Leshau-Pondo, Nyandarua County. Photo/Newsflash

“As a region, there’s a secret that we have failed to understand: The boss is not always right, but he is always the boss,” Kimengere remarked. His comments were seen as a subtle reference to the growing tensions between President Ruto and his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, a rift that has unsettled the region’s political scene.

Kimengere drew historical parallels, reminding the audience how Moi, despite facing humiliation — including an incident where he was allegedly slapped by then Rift Valley Police Commissioner James Mathenge — remained loyal and humble during his tenure as Vice President under President Jomo Kenyatta between 1967 and 1978.

Similarly, he highlighted how Raila Odinga, during the Grand Coalition Government (2008–2013), maintained decorum despite occasional fallouts with President Mwai Kibaki and his close allies. President Ruto, too, Kimengere noted, showed remarkable restraint and respect towards former President Uhuru Kenyatta, even amidst clear political tensions while serving as Deputy President from 2013 to 2022.

The Kuungana Kujenga Kenya-Sauti ya Mnyonge poster wishing Kenyans happy Easter holidays. Photo/Newsflash

“As Mt Kenya, we must learn from the humility and political acumen exhibited by these leaders. Political resilience, loyalty, and strategic patience are key ingredients for national leadership,” he said.

A call to the youth and the common Mwananchi

Beyond political lessons, Kimengere is championing the inclusion of young people in national leadership conversations. Speaking to Newsflash, he emphasized the need for the youth to move from the sidelines to the decision-making table.

“The youth must be at the centre of discussions pertaining to national leadership,” he stressed, urging young people to take proactive roles in shaping the country’s future. He challenged the youth to believe in themselves and seize the opportunities available through political engagement, rather than waiting for handouts or being used as tools during election seasons.

Political activist David Kimengere addressing mourners at a Mau Mau descendant burial ceremony at Leshau-Pondo, Nyandarua County, recently. Photo/Newsflash.

Kimengere also called on Kenyans, especially those in Mt Kenya, to turn up in large numbers and register as members of the Kuungana Kujenga Kenya–Sauti ya Mnyonge party. He noted that building a strong grassroots movement would be critical to ensuring that ordinary citizens have a voice in the next government.

“We are building a movement that will change how power is distributed in this country. No one will be left behind. Everyone must have a seat at the table,” he declared.

“With a blend of historical grounding, youthful energy, and a resonant message for the common mwananchi, David Kimengere and his party appear poised to redefine the political landscape of Mt Kenya as 2027 approaches,” says James Gitahi, a political analyst.

“If the current wave of excitement is anything to go by, Kuungana Kujenga Kenya could become one of the major forces to reckon with in the coming elections,” adds Gitahi.

Kimengere’s explosive petition to AUC

In February, activist Kimengere petitioned the African Union Commission (AUC) to bar Kenya’s candidate, Raila Odinga, from contesting for the top position, accusing him of involvement in political violence and electoral malpractice over the years.

Kimengere’s explosive petition quickly gained international traction, as he spread his message to several countries, sparking widespread debate in diplomatic circles.

Sources who spoke to Newsflash revealed that Kimengere’s petition was a significant factor behind Uganda’s decision to boycott the elections.

Moreover, it was part of the reasons that led to Raila’s eventual defeat by Djibouti’s Mahmoud Youssouf, who emerged the winner in a tightly contested race.

The controversy surrounding the election exposed deep divisions within the African Union and raised fresh concerns about the criteria used to vet candidates for continental leadership roles.

Political analysts note that Kimengere’s intervention demonstrated the powerful influence civil society actors can have on major political outcomes in Africa.

“His actions also underscored a growing demand for transparency, accountability, and integrity among those seeking to lead regional institutions,” says James Murache, a political analyst.