President William Ruto’s political advisor Karisa Nzai, locally known as Mkulubilanga, has been chosen by Kaya elders as the new leader of the Mijikenda community.
The Kaya elders, who are the custodians of the Mijikenda culture and traditions, announced their decision on Monday after a lengthy deliberation in Chaani, Changamwe sub-county, Mombasa.
The elders said they were impressed by Nzai’s charisma, leadership, eloquence, decisiveness, and ability to bring people together. They said Nzai has demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of the Mijikenda community and the Coast region at large.
Nzai, a former Jomvu Kuu MCA in Mombasa, will be installed in an elaborate ceremony at a later date, according to the Kaya elders led by their chairman Mwinyi Mwalimu Mbwisho.
Mbwisho said the time has come for the Mijikenda community to rise and be counted as a force to be reckoned in the Coast region. He said Nzai will be the kingpin of the Coast region and will champion the political, economic, and social interests of the Mijikenda people and other communities living in the region.
“We have found someone who will lead the way to achieving our community interests. He will be the kingpin of this Coast region. And that is Karisa Nzai,” Mbwisho said.
He added that Nzai will work closely with President Ruto and other leaders to ensure that the Coast region gets its fair share of development and resources. He also urged the Mijikenda community to rally behind Nzai and support his vision.
Nzai thanked the Kaya elders for their confidence and trust in him. He said he was humbled and honored by the recognition and vowed to serve the Mijikenda community and the Coast region with diligence and integrity.
“I am grateful to the Kaya elders for this great honor. I accept it with humility and responsibility. I pledge to work for the unity and prosperity of the Mijikenda community and the Coast region. I will not let you down,” Nzai said.
He also thanked President Ruto for his mentorship and guidance. He said he will continue to work with the president and other leaders to deliver on the promises made to the people of Kenya.
“I also want to thank His Excellency President Ruto for his support and advice. He is a true friend of the Coast region and a visionary leader. I will work with him and other leaders to ensure that we fulfill our agenda for the nation,” Nzai said.
Nzai’s coronation as the Mijikenda kingpin is expected to boost his political profile and influence in the Coast region and beyond. He is seen as a key ally of President Ruto and a potential successor in the 2032 general elections.