Wakabura Warns Against Divisive Politics In 2027 NTE Contest

By Suleiman Mbatiah

Calls for calm and mature politics are growing louder in Nakuru Town East as political activity gradually builds toward the 2027 General Election, with leaders and aspirants urging restraint and warning against divisive rhetoric that could undermine peace.

Philanthropist, politician and businessman Maina Wakabura warned that reckless political statements by some aspirants risk stirring tensions, particularly within low-income neighbourhoods where political competition can easily inflame emotions among vulnerable residents.

The Nakuru Town East parliamentary front-runner spoke at Kamukunji Grounds in Biashara Ward during a community event organized to honour and celebrate elderly residents, a gathering that also doubled as a platform for early political messaging.

“In particular, I want to point out Wakili Ndumia who has taken issue with almost everyone, from an MCA to the President. That is not politics but unnecessary confrontation that does not help residents,” he said.

Wakabura noted that more than ten aspirants have already declared interest in succeeding Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, who is eyeing the Senate seat, adding that most contenders have so far demonstrated restraint.

Positioning himself as a strong contender, Wakabura said his upbringing in informal settlements gives him a deeper understanding of the constituency’s social and economic realities, noting the areas remain a decisive voting bloc.

He recalled growing up in Kaloleni Giza where his mother, fondly known as Mama Kahiga, played a key role as a respected community mobilizer, shaping his early exposure to grassroots leadership and civic responsibility.

Addressing residents’ concerns about displacement, Wakabura assured locals that ongoing or future development projects would not result in forced evictions or demolitions of houses within the densely populated neighbourhoods.

“What I can assure residents is that your houses will not be demolished in the name of development. Instead, our focus should be securing title deeds so families can live with dignity,” he told residents.

On social welfare, Wakabura said he had initiated a continuing community health outreach programme in partnership with Biashara Ward MCA aspirant Saidi Musa to expand access to basic healthcare services for vulnerable residents.

While seeking blessings from the elderly residents, Wakabura also announced a Sh200,000 contribution to supplement support earlier issued by MP David Gikaria to assist the vulnerable community group during the event.

He again criticised Wakili Ndumia, warning that his quiet political style should not be mistaken for weakness, and pledged to confront rivals through issue-based campaigns rather than personal attacks and goonism.