The Agikuyu Council of Elders visited the home of the late Vice President Michael Kijana Wamalwa in Trans Nzoia County as they seek to strengthen ties between Western and Mount Kenya regions.

The visit, aimed at promoting national cohesion, sought to strengthen historical ties and foster unity between the Agikuyu and Luhya communities in honor of the friendship between the late Wamalwa and former President Mwai Kibaki.

Speaking to the press after visiting Wamalwa’s gravesite, Agikuyu council chairman Wachira Kiago said the purpose of the visit was to honor the strong bond between late President Mwai Kibaki and Wamalwa and to rekindle the spirit of inter-community cooperation that they once championed.

“The friendship between these two leaders was not only personal but also a symbol of national unity. By retracing their steps, we hope to revive the vision of inclusive development and peaceful coexistence among communities,” said Kiago.

Wamalwa died in 2003, less than a year after helping Kibaki clinch the presidency through the National Rainbow Coalition (NARC). His death left a notable vacuum in the administration and the national psyche.

Richard Walukano, chairman of the Bukusu community, recounted the depth of the bond between the two leaders, recalling the emotional moment when President Kibaki openly wept after Wamalwa’s death in 2003.

“It is not easy for a sitting President to shed tears, but Kibaki did a clear reflection of their deep friendship and mutual respect,” said Walukano.

Eugene Wamalwa, the younger brother of the late Kijana Wamalwa and leader of the DAP-K party, received the elders at their family home. He hailed the visit as a sign of renewed hope and reconciliation.

Wamalwa added that the bond between the Kikuyu and Luhya communities dates back generations, and was greatly strengthened by the friendship between Kibaki and Kijana Wamalwa.

“The elders’ visit to the western region is a gesture of goodwill, a call to unity, peace, and a shared national identity. Where elders are present, solutions are found,” Wamalwa said.

When asked whether the renewed friendship could lead to a political alliance in the upcoming general elections, Wamalwa clarified that the initiative was not political but cultural and social, aimed at building bridges between communities.

“This is not about politics. It is about people. We must first unite as communities, and let any political cooperation emerge from mutual understanding and shared values.”

The Agikuyu elders are expected to continue their two-day tour in Bungoma County, where they will visit the home of the respected elder Elijah Wanameme and other cultural heritage sites significant to the Luhya community.

The friendship between President Kibaki and Vice President Wamalwa remains a hallmark of Kenya’s democratic journey. Though Kijana Wamalwa’s death in 2003 left a void in Kibaki’s administration, their legacy continues to inspire efforts toward unity and national healing.