Barrack Muluka accuses Ruto and Mudavadi of tribalism, questions president’s condemnation of tribal politics

Political commentator Barrack Muluka has criticized President William Ruto for engaging in tribal politics while publicly condemning those he views as tribalists, sparking a debate about ethnicity and political mobilization ahead of the 2027 General Election. In an interview with a local radio station on October 12, 2026, Muluka pointed out that Ruto's public condemnation of tribalism seemed inconsistent with his own political mobilization based on ethnic lines.

He suggested that the President was not sincere in his condemnation, as he was deeply involved in tactics that aligned with tribal interests. Muluka argued that it was hypocritical for Ruto to criticize others for mobilizing communities along ethnic lines while employing similar strategies himself. "He can’t condemn watu wanaita ati watu wakabila," he stated.

His comments highlight the central role of tribalism in Kenya's political landscape as leaders seek to consolidate regional support and form alliances before the upcoming General Election. Muluka also discussed Mudavadi's political efforts in Western Kenya, questioning the extent to which the Prime Minister was utilizing ethnic networks to build support in the region.

He pointed out Mudavadi's attempts to mobilize Luhya voters in Western Kenya, suggesting that these moves were driven by a desire to consolidate his own political base. Despite his harsh criticism of Ruto and Mudavadi, Muluka expressed optimism that voters in Western Kenya would make independent political decisions rather than blindly follow leaders attempting to control regional voting patterns.

"Fortunately in Luhya land, where I come from, people who claim to be tribal kingpins and who tell us ati tutapiga namna hii, au tutapiga namna ile. Hapana," he emphasized. Muluka stressed that voters should rely on their own convictions and not automatically follow political figures who claim to be ethnic kingpins. "We listen to our inner soul, and I know that people like Dennis here will tell us," he concluded.

As the 2027 General Election draws nearer, questions about ethnic alliances, regional mobilization, and national political leadership are expected to remain at the forefront of discussions surrounding Kenya's political future.