Tribal Politics in Kenyan Campuses: A Dangerous Blueprint for Future Leadership

Photo: swearing in of MMUSO elect leaders ( masinde muliro university)

Introduction: Seeds of Division in Learning Institutions

Kenyan universities should be incubators of progressive leadership, yet they often reflect the very tribal divisions that have plagued national politics for decades. Student elections, leadership appointments, and even social groupings frequently revolve around ethnic lines, shaping a future leadership culture that mirrors the failures of past generations. If university students—our future MPs, governors, and even presidents—are already engaging in tribal politics, what hope is there for a united Kenya?

Case Study 1: The Campus Elections That Mirror National Politics

At RONGO UNIVERSITY, the recent student union elections saw alliances form along tribal lines rather than policy-based discussions. Campaigns were not about student welfare, governance, or reforms; they revolved around which tribe was due for the top seat. Some candidates, backed by national politicians, received funding and logistical support from tribal leaders, setting a dangerous precedent for future elections beyond campus.

Why Tribal Politics Thrives in Universities

1. Political Sponsorship from National Leaders – Politicians see student leadership as a stepping stone and often support candidates from their ethnic group, promising future rewards.

2. The ‘It’s Our Turn’ Mentality – Many student voters prioritize their tribe rather than competence, leading to a cycle of ineffective leadership.

3. Historical Divisions in National Politics – Since independence, Kenyan politics has been dominated by tribal alliances. Students raised in this environment naturally adopt the same mindset.

4. Lack of Political Ideology – Unlike in the West, where university politics often aligns with liberal or conservative ideologies, Kenya’s student politics lacks clear ideological direction, making tribalism the default.

5. Social Survival and Ethnic Comfort Zones – Many students feel a sense of security when surrounded by people from their ethnic community, reinforcing tribal divisions even in leadership structures.

The Effects of Tribal Politics in Campus Leadership

1. Incompetent Leadership – When leaders are elected based on ethnicity rather than ability, student governance becomes weak, ineffective, and prone to corruption.

2. Political Violence and Intimidation – Some campus elections turn violent, with ethnic groups clashing to secure power, just like in national elections.

3. Marginalization of Minority Groups – Smaller ethnic communities are often sidelined, making university politics a mirror of Kenya’s broader marginalization issues.

4. Corruption and Resource Mismanagement – Just like in national government, tribalism in student leadership fosters nepotism, favoritism, and financial mismanagement.

5. A Divided Future Leadership – Graduates carry this tribal mindset into professional and political spaces, sustaining ethnic divisions in national leadership.

Case Study 2: The Lasting Impact of Campus Tribalism

In a recent gubernatorial election, three candidates—former student leaders from different universities—relied heavily on their tribal bases rather than policies to win votes. Their leadership styles reflected the tribal alliances they built in university. The result? A deeply divided electorate, corruption scandals linked to ethnic favoritism, and governance failures affecting service delivery.

How Can We Break the Cycle?

The only way to dismantle tribal politics in universities is through intentional reforms and cultural shifts. Some solutions include:

1. Encouraging Issue-Based Politics – University debates, manifestos, and leadership training should focus on policies and student welfare rather than ethnic identity.

2. Civic Education and Awareness – Universities should introduce compulsory civic education programs that teach democracy, governance, and the dangers of tribalism.

3. Stronger Student Electoral Bodies – Just as Kenya’s national electoral body must uphold fairness, university election commissions must be independent, transparent, and free from external interferences 

4. Mentorship from Non-Tribal Leaders – Young leaders should be mentored by professionals who prioritize integrity over tribal affiliations.

5. Media and Social Influence – Student bloggers, campus journalists, and social media influencers should call out tribal politics and promote national unity.

photo : election campaign at mmust ( credit: unknown)

Conclusion: The Future is in Our Hands

If universities continue to be breeding grounds for tribal politics, the next generation of Kenyan leaders will be no different from the current ones—divided, corrupt, and incompetent. But change is possible. As students, we have the power to demand better leadership, vote based on merit, and dismantle the toxic tribal mindset that has held Kenya back for decades.

What Do You Think? Join the Conversation!

Have you experienced tribal politics in your university? Do you think this trend can be reversed? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going.