Atheists in Kenya Society has criticized the broad-based government as a tactic to ensure President William Ruto’s 2027 re-election by manipulating ethnic divisions.
In a statement, the society’s president, Harrison Munia, accused the two leaders of prioritizing electoral gains over national unity.
“Ruto and Raila Odinga are exploiting ethnic divisions for electoral gain rather than promoting inclusive governance that transcends tribal lines,” Munia said.
He argued that the alliance aims to consolidate support from their respective ethnic communities, a tactic he called “old-school politics.”
Munia warned that the partnership poses a significant threat to Kenya’s national cohesion, as ethnicity remains a defining factor in the country’s political landscape.
“We urge all Kenyans to reject the politics of tribe and ethnicity and demand leadership that unites rather than divides,” he said.
Kenya’s political history has often been shaped by ethnic alliances, influencing electoral outcomes and governance. Critics of the Ruto-Odinga pact argue it risks deepening tribal divisions.
However, supporters, including Orange Democratic Movement and Kenya Kwanza politicians, claim the alliance fosters stability and inclusivity by bringing together diverse political factions.
Political analyst Robert Makokha cautioned that while coalitions can bridge divides, they must prioritize policy over personality.
“If the focus remains on ethnic arithmetic rather than governance, it could undermine public trust,” she said.
The Atheists in Kenya Society, a non-profit advocating secular governance, has previously criticized political leaders for leveraging religious and ethnic identities.
Munia called for a shift toward issue-based politics to address Kenya’s pressing challenges, including economic inequality and corruption.
Religion has significantly shaped Kenyan politics, with Christian and Muslim leaders influencing voter preferences, policy debates, and candidate endorsements.