Members of four minority and marginalised communities have called on President William Ruto and his handshake partner Raila Odinga to consider implementing the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report.
A lobby group led by Laurence Kimutai, a Sabaot professional said the report should be implemented without delay to address long and deeply entrenched historical injustices.
“80 per cent of what we presented to NADCO Taskforce was captured. Now that the two leaders have agreed to work together, we appeal that the report be given priority since it offers realistic solutions to our challenges,” Kimutai said.
The passionate social justice advocate said the marginalized groups, have historically suffered due to skewed boundary demarcations during the colonial period.
Are the minority communities sidelined in the 47 counties?
Kimutai argues that the Kenyan boundaries, as they are now, were designed without regard to cultural and historical ties, and their transformation into modern counties after the 2010 Constitution has deepened their marginalization.
The professionals said skewed demarcation of boundaries made the Sabaots domiciled in Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties weakening their political influence and economic opportunities.
“As a community, we have never held the position of a cabinet minister since independence. This is a deliberate scheme to lock us out of leadership positions,” he argued.
He also lamented that the community has not felt the fruits of devolution.
Dr. Fred Omuse, a lecturer of History and Governance at the University of Eldoret said that for the first time in Kenya’s history, a national report has recognized the systemic exclusion of the minority groups.
The University don said the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) should review boundaries before the 2027 elections.
He added that the delay in the review of boundaries has raised suspicions among marginalised communities.
“This is not about politics. It is about correcting glaring historical injustices and ensuring fairness for all Kenyans, regardless of tribe, region or race,” Omuse said.
These minority groups bank on the goodwill of the two leaders. Their prayer is that the County Boundaries Bill is passed and implemented to ensure that all communities get fair representation and resources.
