Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi graced the 45th Maragoli Cultural Festival in Mbale, Vihiga County.
He had a powerful message for elected leaders: take responsibility and deliver on promises made to the people.
Addressing thousands of attendees, Mudavadi emphasized the crucial role Members of County Assembly (MCAs) play in advancing devolution through meaningful legislation and effective service delivery.
“Leaders must stop shifting blame. Every elected official has a duty to fulfill their mandate,” he said firmly.
Citing resolutions made during the previous year’s festival, Mudavadi expressed disappointment that MCAs had not yet passed legislation to gazette the Mbale Cultural Grounds.
He stressed that modernizing the grounds would create a vibrant cultural hub for future generations.
As the patron of the Vihiga Cultural Society, Mudavadi spoke passionately about preserving the Maragoli heritage.
He urged leaders to mirror his dedication to culture, reminding them that unity and cultural pride are essential for national cohesion.
“I am proud to be Maragoli, proud to be Luhya, but above all, I am proud to be Kenyan.
Let’s preserve our culture and remain united as a people,” he urged.
Mudavadi also took the opportunity to rally support for Raila Odinga’s African Union (AU) candidacy.
He reassured attendees of the government’s unwavering backing, highlighting Odinga’s credentials and vision for a united and prosperous Africa.
“We support Raila unconditionally because we believe in his leadership.
He has the experience and vision to steer the AU to greater heights,” Mudavadi said, cautioning against political gimmicks that could undermine this collective effort.
On healthcare, Mudavadi called on Vihiga residents to embrace the Social Health Insurance Fund under the Taifa Care program.
He warned against politicizing the initiative, noting that other counties were already registering in large numbers.
“Let’s not be left behind. This program is for our benefit,” he stressed.
Addressing rising insecurity in Vihiga, Mudavadi vowed to take personal responsibility in ensuring safety returns to the region.
Residents have been grappling with increasing violent incidents, but the Prime CS assured them of swift government action.
“I will not rest until normalcy is restored and every resident feels safe,” he promised.
The festival, themed “Komenya M’bugwi”—meaning living in a newly acquired land—attracted thousands of locals and distinguished guests, including the Azerbaijan Ambassador to Kenya.
The event celebrated Maragoli heritage while emphasizing the importance of leadership, unity, and cultural preservation.
