The Kiambu Liberation Movement (KLM) today issued a powerful statement condemning what it termed as “reckless and divisive remarks” by a section of leaders, including Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung’wah, regarding Kiambu’s identity and its relationship with the wider Mount Kenya region.
The movement, speaking from its commitment to a united and prosperous nation, emphatically stated that Kiambu is an inseparable part of the Mt. Kenya family.
In a press conference held in Kiambu, the KLM leadership, represented by Secretary General Kimani Wachira and Chairman Ngugi Ndegwa, expressed grave concern over what they see as a deliberate attempt to fragment the unity of the region for short-term political gains.
“To suggest otherwise is not only misleading but also a deliberate attempt to fragment our unity for short-term political gains,” stated Wachira, who signed the official statement as “Liberator General.”
“We, the youth and progressive voices of Kiambu, will not allow such outdated tactics of divide and rule to take root in this era of enlightenment and digital solidarity.”
The movement highlighted the long-standing bond and shared history between the people of Kiambu and their brothers and sisters from every part of the Mt. Kenya region, a bond that has been the source of the region’s cultural and economic strength.
“This has not changed and can never change as our bond goes beyond the delusion and greed of rogue leaders in haste to advance the cause of an overambitious and oppressive regime,” the statement read.
“We emphasize, Kiambu is part of Mt Kenya in fact it is the resolute force of its heart!”
Chairman Ndegwa further criticized the leaders for not involving the public in their discussions.
“We did not send our elected leaders to start a discussion of having Kiambu county cut ties with other counties who make Mt Kenya region,” he said, adding that there was no public participation or civic education for such a significant decision.
Ndegwa underscored the importance of unity, stating, “Kiambu county cannot afford to be a region on its own as there is strength in numbers, unity, and association of all counties that make Mt. Kenya.
The KLM urged leaders to shift their focus from divisive rhetoric to addressing the pressing issues facing the people. The movement outlined a six-point agenda of critical concerns, including, Rising youth unemployment and lack of job creation.
The high cost of living and unaffordable basic commodities. Rampant drug and alcohol abuse destroying the young generation.
Insecurity and crime in both urban and rural areas. Poor infrastructure, especially feeder roads and markets. Underfunded schools and lack of support for education and skills training.
Wanjiku Muthoni, a representative of the movement, offered a counter-proposal, suggesting that instead of hiving off Kiambu, leaders should advocate for the county to be split into three due to its massive population.
“We should be discussing how Kiambu county can be three counties.This will ensure Kiambu have allocations that will suit its people and representation equivalent to population,” she said.
The Kiambu Liberation Movement concluded its statement by calling on leaders, particularly those it identified as “rogue,” to retract their statements and champion policies that benefit the people.
The movement also called upon the electorate to be vigilant and hold their elected officials accountable at the ballot box.
“History will not be kind to leaders who profit from disunity,” the statement concluded, reaffirming the movement’s commitment to a greater, more developed, and economically liberated Mt. Kenya region, with Kiambu at its heart.