𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐲𝐚?

BY ROBERT WANYONYI, TANDAO MEDIA GROUP CEO.

In the ever-evolving and often unpredictable world of Kenyan politics, a new and unconventional figure is stirring waves across the political landscape. Peter Kaluma Salasya, the youthful and energetic Member of Parliament for Mumias East, has emerged as a dynamic force, transitioning from a social media sensation into a vocal and visible political player on the national stage.

Salasya, known for his animated presence on platforms like TikTok, has captured attention far beyond his western Kenya base. His recent political momentum—bolstered by massive rallies in Vihiga, Kakamega, Bungoma, and Busia—has centered around mobilizing the Gen Z demographic and reigniting political consciousness in the Luhya community. His message: it’s time for the Luhya people to reclaim their voice and political identity, independent of external influence.

The MP’s approach is as unorthodox as his rise. Once dismissed as a comic relief in political circles, Salasya’s ability to draw tens of thousands to his rallies has stunned both critics and supporters alike. A key turning point in his political journey came at the Nyayo Stadium during a match between Kenya and Gabon, where Salasya was reportedly roughed up by ODM supporters. Instead of backing down, the incident seemed to ignite a new fire in him.Salasya has since launched an aggressive campaign aimed at reducing ODM’s dominance in Western Kenya, arguing that the region has long been treated as an extension of Nyanza for ODM leader Raila Odinga’s political ambitions. “We want to see the end of ODM in Luhya land. Western is no longer an extension of Nyanza for Raila Odinga to use as he wishes,” declared Salasya, calling for political self-determination and generational change.

He has drawn both admiration and backlash. While some view his campaign as necessary for political revitalization in the region, others accuse him of sowing division and leveraging populist tactics. Nonetheless, his ability to connect directly with young voters—many of whom feel alienated by traditional politics—has solidified his role as a key figure in Kenya’s evolving political scene.

Salasya’s movement has also found unlikely allies. Leaders from other parties including the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), Ford Kenya, and even members of the ruling UDA have shown interest in his messaging, with figures like Didmus Barasa and Godfrey Osotsi acknowledging the urgency of addressing youth frustrations and political redundancy in the region.

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As Salasya continues to draw large crowds and challenge established norms, political observers are closely watching whether his bold moves will translate into long-term influence—or if they will fizzle out as just another moment in Kenya’s vibrant political theatre. Either way, Salasya has proven that in today’s politics, direct engagement and an appeal to youthful aspirations can shake the status quo.