Funyula MP Ojiambo challenges leaders to open up their strongholds to competition

Funyula Member of Parliament Wilberforce Ojiambo has criticized the use of tribal politics in Kenya, expressing concern that ethnic mobilization ahead of the 2027 General Election could divert attention from issues important to voters. Speaking to a local radio station on August 26, 2026, Ojiambo, who belongs to the Linda Mwananchi group, urged politicians to allow competition into their traditional strongholds and enable voters to explore alternative political ideas.

"Don't be afraid of competition," Ojiambo urged. "If you enter politics, you must be open to competition." Ojiambo argued that political competition provides voters the chance to assess competing visions for the country, stating that one must be prepared to defend their ideas against scrutiny. He denounced what he called a "silo mentality," where political leaders attempt to prevent rival candidates from addressing voters in areas they view as their political bases.

Ojiambo questioned why politicians would fear opponents entering their strongholds if they were confident in their voter support, urging them to "open it up." The legislator expressed concern over the renewed use of tribal identities in politics, pointing to the consequences of divisive narratives during the 2007-2008 election period.

He emphasized that tribal politics could have detrimental effects on unity and cohesion among Kenyans. Ojiambo advocated for political competition to be based on policies, ideas, and development rather than ethnic identity. He also criticized the leadership in Homa Bay County, questioning whether development had reached communities outside the county's urban centers.

"If you look beyond the town center, what you see outside there shows that the leaders in Homa Bay do not care about the people of Homa Bay; they only care about their own interests," Ojiambo remarked. He contrasted this neglect with his own county of Busia, where he had previously considered it among Kenya's most underserved regions, but was struck by the conditions he observed in some parts of Homa Bay.