John KaWanjiku has accused Hassan Omar Hassan of making remarks that appear to target the Kikuyu community politically, warning against ethnic narratives that could divide Kenyans.
In a statement shared online, the Kiambaa MP said leaders should avoid statements or actions that may fuel tribal tensions and undermine national unity.
KaWanjiku insisted that being Kikuyu is not a crime and cautioned politicians against engaging in ethnic politics at a time when wananchi are already facing major economic and social challenges.
“The UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar Hassan should understand that being Kikuyu is not a crime,” the MP stated.
He further argued that Kenya’s strength lies in unity, mutual respect and equal treatment for all citizens regardless of tribe, religion or political affiliation.
According to KaWanjiku, political discourse should focus on the issues affecting ordinary wananchi instead of tribal divisions that could create unnecessary hostility among communities.
The legislator warned that repeated ethnic narratives risk weakening cohesion and distracting leaders from addressing pressing concerns such as the high cost of living, unemployment and economic hardships affecting many households.
His remarks come amid rising political tensions and increasing debate over ethnicity and regional politics within the country’s leadership circles.
KaWanjiku maintained that leaders have a responsibility to promote peaceful coexistence and avoid language that may appear to isolate or profile specific communities.
He also noted that Kenya has previously experienced painful moments linked to ethnic politics and urged leaders to learn from the country’s past by promoting inclusivity and unity.
Political analysts say conversations surrounding ethnicity continue to dominate sections of Kenya’s political environment, particularly during periods of heightened political competition and public dissatisfaction over governance and economic challenges.
The statement by the Kiambaa MP has since sparked mixed reactions online, with supporters backing his call for unity while critics debate the role ethnicity continues to play in the country’s politics.
Even as political alignments continue taking shape ahead of future contests, wananchi are increasingly calling on leaders to prioritise development, accountability and solutions to economic problems instead of tribal politics.
KaWanjiku reiterated that preserving peace, respect and national unity should remain a priority for all leaders regardless of political differences.
